Dorothy Joyce Burkhalter Duvier, age 88, of Franklin, Tennessee went to be home with her Heavenly Father on August 10, 2026. She was born on November 21, 1937, in Nashville, to the late George Nicholas Burkhalter and Tula Marie Netterville. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Henry August Duvier and former husband and the father of her children Bobby Kenneth Barnes. She is survived by her son Ken (Desiree) Barnes, and her daughter Cindy (Duwayne) Dyal; grandchildren Matthew (Abby) Bridges, Jessica (David) Roos, Nicole Bridges, Hope Bridges, Sara Barnes, Nathan Bridges and Hanna (Parker) Fleming; great-grandchildren Ellie, Eli and Hudson; and sister Barbara Self and brother, Nick Burkhalter.

Joyce was a free spirit who loved nature, land and horses. Above all, was her love for the Lord, her family and especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Joyce graduated from David Lipscomb College where she studied to become a teacher which she began upon graduation. She taught 4th grade at Tusculum Elementary School and had many fond memories of her time there. When she became a mother, that became her full-time job.

From a very young age Joyce developed a love for horses and a special connection to the land and nature. She loved riding her horses and sharing that passion with others on the family farm, Bluebird Valley Farm, in Fernvale, Tennessee. She enjoyed many trips that involved horses from trailering their horses to Bucksnort or Big South Fork to traveling out West to enjoy Wyoming and the Tetons on horseback.

Her love for animals was undeniable. Somehow, stray animals always seemed to find their way to her farm -and once they did, they were never turned away. She welcomed them with open arms, providing food, shelter, and love, often turning unexpected visitors into beloved family members.

Joyce cherished family gatherings, whether they were birthday celebrations, holidays or simply time together “just because.” She was a voracious reader devouring lengthy books by authors such as James Michener, Boris Pasternak and others. She was also a fierce debater, always prepared to “discuss” or lecture anyone who might need to be straightened out regarding her political positions.

A private celebration of life service with James Vandiver officiating will be held. In lieu of flowers for those who would like to make a donation in memory of Joyce, please consider a gift to Saddle Up at 1549 Old Hillsboro Road, Franklin, TN 37069.

The family would like to express sincere appreciation to Trish Hammond and Kathy Claud for their devoted love and care. Joyce will be remembered and greatly missed by her family and friends. Her love for family, horses and land will continue through the generations that she loved so dearly.