Joyce Malinda Macklin, 85, of Lincoln, Delaware, passed away peacefully in her home on February 26, 2026.
Born in Milford, Delaware, she was the daughter of the late Miles T. and Sara Mills. In 1959 Joyce graduated from Milford High School and married the love of her life, Charles E. Macklin, Sr. Together they built a beautiful life over 67 years of marriage rooted in hard work, faith, and family.
Joyce was a dedicated businesswoman and a proud fixture in her community. She was the owner and operator of their small hometown grocery store, Macklin’s Groceries Store in Cedar Creek, for over 30 years. She also served as secretary for Charles and Joyce’s business, Macklin’s Auto Sales & Repair, for more than three decades.
Her commitment to service extended far beyond her businesses. Joyce was a Lifetime Member of the Slaughter Beach Memorial Fire Company Auxiliary since 1962. She volunteered her time at Milford Hospital and was a member of the Milford Elks Lodge #2401, where she proudly served as past president of the auxiliary. She also served for many years as past president of the Milford Pony Club.
A devoted member of Lincoln Cornerstone Church, Joyce faithfully served as treasurer for many years. She also enjoyed working the voting polls for the Department of Elections alongside her daughter, Kim Quillen, for over 20 years at the Ellendale Fire Hall.
Joyce treasured her family above all else. She was known for hosting memorable New Year’s Eve parties and for the warmth and joy she brought to every gathering. Her home was a place of love, laughter, and togetherness.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, Charles E. Macklin, Sr.; her four children, Joyce Webb (Ricky), Donna Reed (Blake), Charlie Macklin, Jr. (Kelly), and Kim Quillen (Mark); her seven cherished grandchildren, Hilary Webb, Danelle Muzik (Bryan), Lauren Swain (Chris), Samantha Millman (Matt), Taylor Quillen, Emily Brown (Jackson), and Cole Quillen; and her seven adored great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Kinsley, Macklyn, Tanner, Faith, Maddy, and Birdie.
A visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Slaughter Beach Memorial Fire Company, 359 Bay Avenue, Milford, Delaware 19963.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joyce’s honor may be made to Compassionate Care Hospice, 416 Williams Street, Suite 101, Milford, DE 19963 or Slaughter Beach Memorial Fire Company.
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