Mrs. Dayna Joyce Blankenship Shook, 90, of Hartwell, GA, born September 6, 1934 in Afton, OK, passed away at her home on January 9, 2025. She was the daughter of the late Howell Kenneth Blankenship and Violet Rider Blankenship. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Marvin Ray Shook; her son, Geoffrey Merrill Shook of Camano Island, WA; and daughter, Dayna Rae Monaghan of Hartwell, and seven grandchildren.

Joyce (as she was known) was employed as a telephone operator, a bank teller and a secretary for Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, CA. After her children were born, she enjoyed being a stay-at-home mother until they began their college careers. She was an active volunteer in the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, serving in women's leadership and embarking on trips to support missions in Papua, Indonesia and the Philippines. Upon moving to Hartwell in 2023, she and her husband became members of First Baptist Church of Hartwell.

In her 90 years of life, Joyce was known for her loving and steadfast service as a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was an extraordinary cook who enjoyed entertaining, and her home was always open and hospitable.  She was vivacious and engaging, never at a loss for words and she made friends where over she went. A lifelong Christian, she never failed to pray for those around her, and her cheerful spirit and faithful witness will be missed by many. Her family rejoices in the fact that she is with her Savior in heaven.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her three brothers: Ronald, Charles and Kenneth.

Dayna Joyce wished to be cremated, and her ashes will be placed in Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, CA.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to the Christian and Missionary Alliance (cmalliance.org).

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation services of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.