Carol Joe Mays Boyce, a devoted wife, mother, sister and educator, passed away Monday, June 24, 2024, after a brief illness.

Born and raised in Milledgeville, Georgia, Carol attended Peabody High School, graduating in 1956. She was a faithful organizer of her class reunions for over 20 years. Carol went on to graduate from Georgia State College for Women (now Georgia College & State University) in 1959 with a degree in education.

Carol dedicated her career to teaching elementary school for 30 years, primarily in Gainesville, Georgia, where she made a lasting impact on her students and community. Some of her most memorable teaching jobs were in Athens, Georgia at Alps Road Elementary and at Candler Street and Fair Street Elementary Schools in Gainesville.

While living in Married Student Housing at the University of Georgia, Carol and her husband Aubrey began a lifelong tradition of attending UGA football games with close friends made in Athens. Carol's exceptional planning skills ensured that every game day was a joyous celebration for all, as she oversaw the details of the tailgate group for over 40 years.

Carol and Aubrey shared a love for travel and exploration, venturing to almost all the U.S. National Parks in their RV and frequenting the beautiful beaches of the panhandle with their close family. These trips created a treasure trove of memories that will be cherished by the family.

A member of First United Methodist Church in Gainesville, Carol will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy as a devoted wife, mother, sister, teacher and friend will endure in the hearts of those she touched.

Carol is survived by her loving husband, Aubrey Boyce; daughter, Laurie Boyce Bos (Troy); sister, Julie Brightwell (David); niece, Laura Paige Brightwell; and many extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her father, Julian Mays; mother, Laura Joe Mays; and brother, Levi Mays.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Chapel at The First United Methodist Church of Gainesville, 2780 Thompson Bridge Rd on Saturday, July 13th at 1pm with a reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Peabody High School Scholarship at GCSU at Campus Box 96 Milledgeville, GA 31061. Online donations can be made at https://give.gcsu.edu/g/peabodyscholarship.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Arrangements are in the care of Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501.