FOX Carolina 21Upstate business, community leader passes

An Upstate realtor and community leader died Sunday after battling an illness.

Dan C. Joyner, 74, began his successful real estate career in the early 1960's, began his own firm and served in leadership positions for several Upstate charity and organization boards.

His family released the following statement following his death:

"Dan was the essence of optimism. He was an encourager who cared deeply for each one of you. He brought us joy, laughter and hope. He had a clear perspective on what is truly important in life – faith, family, friends, and of course, Furman. We will miss him dearly."

"Dan would want us to carry on, to fight the good fight. Yes, we are sadden. We hurt. We grieve. But let us be inspired. Let us celebrate a life, so incredibly well lived!"

Joyner was a 1959 Furman University graduate, opened his own real estate firm in 1964 before later selling it to Merrill Lynch. He was twice named Greenville Realtor of the Year and also South Carolina Realtor of the Year. In 2002, he was named National Prudential Broker of the Year and entered the Prudential Hall of Fame.

Former Gov. David Beasley awarded Joyner the Order of the Palmetto in 1998. He was also named one of the most influential people in Greenville by both The Greenville News and Greenville Magazine.

Joyner is survived by his loving family including wife Katherine Poole Joyner (Kat) of 53 years, their three children Danny Joyner, Lynn Freemon and Beth Crigler, eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements were announced in his obituary. Visitation will be held Tuesday, Jan. 10 from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church, Greenville.

The funeral service will be held Thursday, Jan. 12 at 3 p.m. in the church sanctuary. A private committal will be held following the service.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church-C. Dan Joyner Memorial Fund, 847 Cleveland Street, Greenville, SC 29601 or Furman University-C. Dan Joyner Athletic Scholarship Fund, 3300 Poinsett Highway, Greenville, SC 29613.

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