Tommy "Shorty" Lynn Joyner

Tommy "Shorty" Lynn Joyner, of Winnsboro, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in Mount Pleasant, Texas, at the age of 80.

Shorty was born on July 27, 1944, in Winnsboro, Texas, to Samuel Boyd and Dorothy Agnes (Chitsey) Joyner. He attended Mt. Vernon High School and was a lifelong supporter of the Mt. Vernon Tigers.

On May 28, 1965, Shorty married Virginia Veasey, and they shared a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. They danced through life together, often found two-stepping any chance they could. After they married, they moved to Memphis, Tennessee, for work and he developed an interest in dirt track racing while working at the refinery. They were found at the races almost every weekend. Upon return back to Texas, he began his own journey with dirt track racing. He raced at Lake Cypress Springs Speedway and Millers Cove Speedway for many years.

Shorty was a true cowboy at heart, spending many years bull riding at local rodeos. His love for the outdoors defined him—whether he was hunting, fishing, or tending to his garden, Shorty always found peace and purpose in nature. He also enjoyed hitting the golf course, spending countless hours with his many friends.

Known by many, Shorty became infamous in his own unique way. His larger-than-life personality and distinctive approach to life left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Dorothy Joyner; and a sister Brenda Jo Joyner Wardrup.

Survivors include his loving wife of 59 years, Virginia Joyner; daughter and her husband, Jennifer and Mark Easley; grandsons and their spouses, Jack and Kinley Easley and Dustin and Deidre Easley; great grandson, Noah Easley; and great granddaughter, Kaia Easley; 2 very special cousins, Wanda and Shirley; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

There will be a Celebration of Life Service on Thursday, March 13th, 2025, at Sam B. Harvey Funeral Home at 2:00 p.m. with David Hightower officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cypress Cemetery Association – 5095 FM 21 – Mount Vernon, TX 75475.

Services entrusted to Sam B. Harvey Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made at www.samharveyfuneralhome.com.

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