Joy Arleen (Lanier) Bain

Joy Arleen Lanier Bain, age 67, of Sanford, passed away Thursday, November 6, 2025 at UNC Hospital after a lengthy illness.

She was born in Lee County on November 15, 1957 to William Lanier and the late Gladys Capps Lanier.  In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her son Kenneth Darrell Bain.  Joy dedicated 30 years to the North Carolina Public School System where she worked in the cafeteria and drove a school bus at JR Ingram Elementary School for 32 years. Her kindness and commitment touched countless lives of both students and staff. A faithful member of Lees Chapel Christian Church, she found joy in singing with the choir and serving her church family. Joy loved spending time in her garden, tending to her flowers with a true green thumb. An animal lover at heart, she cared deeply for all of God’s creatures. Known for her compassionate spirit, she was an extraordinary caregiver who gave selflessly to others. Above all, Joy cherished her family and her church, holding them close to her heart throughout her life.

Joy is survived by her father William (Bill) Lanier; daughters Wanda Bain (Steven Thomas) and Crystal Bain Hall (Anthony); brother Randy Lanier (Lea); grandchildren Phillips Bates (Tanner), Christian Miles (Dallas), Cameron Helbert, Drew Thomas, Hannah Bain (Hunter Harris), Landon Kropf, Devon Kropf, Ava Bain and Brooklyn Hall; great-grandchild Raylen Harris and special friends and caregivers Jimmy and Mary Wallace and Lisa Luxton Martin.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home.  The funeral service will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Lees Chapel Christian Church with Rev. Greg Little officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  The family will be receiving friends at the home of Randy (brother) and Lea Lanier (1248 Lees Chapel Road, Sanford).

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