Joyce Malinda Macklin, loved her family
Joyce Malinda Macklin, 85, of Lincoln, passed away peacefully in her home Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026.
Born in Milford, 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 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 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 to 2 p.m., Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Slaughter Beach Memorial Fire Company, 359 Bay Ave., Milford, followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joyce’s honor may be made to Compassionate Care Hospice, 416 Williams St., Ste. 101, Milford, DE 19963 or Slaughter Beach Memorial Fire Company.
Arrangements are in the care of Berry-Short Funeral Home of Milford.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.
