Joyce Ray Collins, age 86, of Pittsboro, NC, passed away December 10, 2024 at Cambridge Hills.  She was born in Orange County on June 7, 1938, to the late Dwight Ray and Bonnie Starnes Ray.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Jimmy Daryl Collins.  She was also preceded in death by her brother, Norris Ray.   Joyce was a Teacher for Chatham County Schools for over 40 years and taught many fourth-grade students.  She volunteered with East Chatham Rescue Squad and she and her husband Jimmy ran one of the top egg producing companies in the 1960's.  When she retired from the school system, she continued to volunteer for many years with Chatham County Schools.  Joyce attended Pittsboro Methodist Church and Hanks Chapel United Church of Christ.  Her hobbies were crossword puzzles and word finds.  She loved her many pet cats over the years and her beloved Molly, who was her Maltese companion for over 17 years.  She is survived by her son David (Gail), her daughter Debbie, grandchildren Jason (Dani), Amanda (Michael), Katelyn, great-grandchildren, Gavin, Abby, Amelia, Jacob, Jordan, Laura and Anthony.  She is also survived by sisters-in-law's Lydia and Faye and several nieces, nephews and cousins.   The family would like to thank the staff at Twin Rivers and Cambridge Hills for all the care that was provided to Joyce and for becoming extended family members to her.  The funeral service will be held Friday, December 13, 2024 at 2:00pm at Hanks Chapel Church with Reverend Bob Wachs officiating.  The family will receive friends one hour before the services in the church sanctuary.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice in Joyce's memory or donate a book to a child as she dedicated her life to teaching children.  Online condolences can be made at www.smithfuneralhomebroadway.com  Arrangements are by Smith Funeral Home, Broadway Inc.