Charles Crockett Joyce

COUNTY FARMER CORONER FINDS JOYCE SHOT HIMSELF WITH 22 CALIBER RIFLE

Charles Joyce, 58, bachelor farmer of near Dutch Mills, shot and killed himself about nine this morning on a bridge about a quarter mile from his Bush Creek home. Coroner Edmond Watson said today after an investigation.

A Note found in the dead man's cottage substantiated the suicide verdict, the coroner reported.

According to Sheriff Bruce Crider, who also investigated, Joyce was still alive when discovered about 9:15 lying in the middle of the bridge, by Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Smith of Dutch Mills. The bullet from a 22 rifle entered his right temple and emerged just about the left ear. He died before a doctor from Lincoln arrived.

The note, addressed to Joyce's sister, Mrs. Carrah McCarty of Dutch Mills, read: "Just pass this up. May God forgive us all. Charley."]

Joyce, whose only living relatives are his sister and brother, Carl of Bakersfield, Calif., lived alone on his 100-acre pasture farm. No motive was given.

The body was removed to the Luginbuel Funeral Home in Lincoln.

August 12, 1949 - Northwest Arkansas Times