Joyce Bare Current of Jefferson, NC, 85, passed away Tuesday, January 27, 2026, leaving behind a life rich in service, creativity, and deep devotion to family and friends.

Born May 3, 1940, to the late Earl and Mabel Bare in Bluefield, West Virginia, Joyce returned with her family to Ashe County as a young girl. It was here that she put down roots, built lifelong friendships, and made her home for the remainder of her life.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Ralph “Bill” Current. She is also preceded in death by her twin brother, Jerry Bare and wife Mickey.

She is survived by her two sons, Dr. Cameron Current and wife Judy of West Jefferson, Chris Current and wife Jamie of Mooresville, North Carolina; four grandchildren, Caroline Current-Sigouin, Camden Current, Gabby Current, and Sophie Current; and her brother, Phil Bare and wife Debbie of West End, North Carolina. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Joyce attended Appalachian State University and worked part-time for many years as a chiropractic assistant in her late husband’s practice. They shared a life of partnership, service, and care for others, and she found her true calling as a massage therapist at Current Chiropractic. Even in her 80s, Joyce continued scheduling and caring for clients, finding deep personal fulfillment in learning their stories, easing their pain, and helping them live healthier, more comfortable lives.

Creative by nature, Joyce expressed herself through many artistic pursuits. She loved painting with oils and discovered a passion for pottery, even installing a kiln in her home. An exceptional cook, Joyce delighted in preparing everything from mountain comfort foods to adventurous, international dishes. She eagerly clipped recipes from magazines and found joy in sharing meals with family and friends. Her love of learning took her to Italy on a culinary journey, and she treasured visits to galleries and museums wherever she traveled.

Above all, Joyce cherished time spent with her family and was delighted when out-of-town loved ones came to visit. She also held dear her circle of close friends—affectionately known as “the girls”—whose companionship, laughter, and shared adventures kept her young at heart and her social calendar full.

A Celebration of Life service, led by Rev. Dr. Michael Lea, will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at West Jefferson First Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Entombment will follow at Ashelawn Memorial Gardens Mausoleum of Prayer.

 A reception with family and friends will be held at the home following the service.

Joyce was a member of West Jefferson First Baptist Church, and in lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to First Baptist Church of West Jefferson Building Fund, P.O. Box 180, West Jefferson, NC 28694.