Rocky Mount –

Philip "Phil" Joyner, also known as "Pepa", "Puddin'", "Major Purchase", or "Uncle Phil", passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 16, 2025 with his loving family by his side at the age of 74. He was born on May 31, 1951 to Atlas and Nell Robbins Joyner, both of whom preceded him in death. Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in a life beautifully lived and a man deeply loved.

A diehard Southern Nash Senior High Firebirds fan, he could be found every Friday night cheering on his team with unmatched passion. He also loved his Tar Heels and was always excited to watch the Hurricanes play. Music stirred his soul. He found joy in the sounds of great artists, especially music rich with horns and brass. He loved westerns, comedies, and watching music videos. Phil was a gifted storyteller, and his sense of humor was timeless. Phil's adventurous spirit made him legendary among family and friends. He always brought energy and heart to everything he did, and he made it his mission to make the people around him feel seen, known, and special. One of his favorite places was on the water, where he made memories that will live on in every wave and wake.

Phil began cutting hair in 1971, and for fifty-four years, he welcomed thousands into his barber chair. For many, those visits were always about more than just a haircut - they were about community, connection, and friendship. Children sat on the leather sofa in his shop watching cartoons, adults laughed at his stories, and many single men received his signature "guarantee haircut," along with dating advice and a few good jokes. His clients spanned generations - some had been coming to him for over fifty years; his oldest customer was 104. Even after retiring due to illness, his phone never stopped ringing. People didn't just come to get their hair cut - they came to spend time with Phil. In his final days, he shared a simple but profound message: He wished for "Peace on Earth and for us to love more."

He leaves a lifetime of wonderful memories for his children, Amber Dyer (Terry) of Mount Pleasant, SC and Neal Joyner (Renead) of Rocky Mount; grandchildren, Corbin and Evan Dyer, Ashley Raya (Abel), Danica Joyner and Jayce Joyner; brothers, Alvin Joyner (Jeri) of Rocky Mount and Delbert Joyner (Patsy) of LaGrange and mother of his children, Willie Joyner of Rocky Mount.

Phil will also be missed by his niece and nephews, Deborah Noblot (Tom) and Alvin "Lil Alvin" Joyner, II (Belinda) and Christopher Joyner (April); great-nieces and nephews, Nicholas Joyner, Ashley Mull (Joey), Raven Green, Noah Noblot and Darrell Joyner (Vicki) and great-great nieces and nephew, Makayla, McKinley and Mack. He is also survived by several cousins, aunts, uncles, and a host of beloved friends, customers, and other extended family.

Phil was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and trusted barber to generations; he was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all who had the fortune of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 pm, Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at NorthSide Church, 1660 Beaver Pond Rd, Rocky Mount. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Southern Nash Senior High Athletic Boosters, 6446 Southern Nash High Road, Bailey, NC 27807.