James Aubrey Boyce

James Aubrey Boyce, a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, coach, and educator, passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2025, after an extended illness.

Born and raised in Edenton, NC, Aubrey attended Oak Ridge Military School before continuing his education at Georgia Military College in Milledgeville, where he met his beloved wife of 63 years, Carol. In 1967, Aubrey graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Education. He later earned a Master's in Education from North Georgia College in the late 1970s and a Specialist in Education (Ed.S) from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1986.

 Affectionately known as Coach Boyce by his students and players, Aubrey began his teaching career in the Hall County School System at East Hall High School, where he coached ninth- grade football and track and field. In 1974, he joined Gainesville City Schools, coaching 9th grade football and teaching health and physical education until his retirement in 1997.

While living in Married Student Housing at the University of Georgia, Aubrey and Carol began a lifelong tradition of attending UGA football games with close friends made in Athens. Tailgating in Athens each fall gameday, celebrating bowl victories when the Dawgs excelled, and hosting their beloved Annual Bulldog Bash at their home became some of their most cherished memories.

Together, they shared a love of travel and exploration, visiting nearly all the U.S. National Parks in their RV and spending cherished time with family on the beaches of the Florida panhandle. These adventures created treasured memories that will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

 A member of First United Methodist Church in Gainesville, Aubrey will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the countless lives he touched as a husband, father, brother, teacher, coach, and friend.

Aubrey is survived by his daughter, Laurie Boyce Bos (Troy); sister-in-law, Julie Brightwell (David); niece, Laura Paige Brightwell; and many extended family members and friends. He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Carol Mays Boyce, parents, Joseph Cooper Boyce and Mary Louise Boyce, as well as five siblings.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Chapel at The First United Methodist Church of Gainesville, 2780 Thompson Bridge Rd, on Saturday, January 17th at 1:00 p.m., with a reception to follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601, or online at ALZ.org.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Arrangements are in the care of Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW. Gainesville, Georgia 30501.

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