Joyce E. Tufts

Joyce Bottomley Tufts, 90, of Pinehurst, passed away at Gray Fox Farm, Friday, December 23, 2016 with, among others, her beloved dog Molly by her side. She was born in Burlington, Wisconsin, September 25, 1926, to Newton and Edna Bottomley, the youngest of eight children.

After high school, she attended Barry University in Miami, Florida, graduating in 1954 with a degree and teacher’s certification in education. She met and married Leonard Tufts in 1960 and they moved to Pinehurst. Joyce, along with Len, became active in the Forest Stewardship Program, the American Tree Farm System, The Voluntary Farm, Voluntary Agricultural Districts and organizations promoting the natural way of life. They were charter members of Moore County Beekeepers, and, were ardent supporters of the North Carolina Zoo right from its beginning.

She is survived by 16 nephews and nieces, and many close friends. Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Len, her seven siblings, and two nieces. The family wishes to thank all the caretakers and friends who were instrumental in helping Joyce remain comfortably in her home during the final months of her life.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, January 14, 2017, at McDonald’s Chapel, 1374 Foxfire Road, Aberdeen, NC, officiated by Dr. Robert B. Whitehouse.

Remembrances may be directed to the: NC Zoological Society, 4403 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC 27203; Moore Humane Society, 5355 N.C. 22, Carthage, NC 28327; or the Friends of Plant Conservation, 1060 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1060.