If you’ve walked a golden retriever, tended a backyard garden, or admired a vintage car driving through the neighborhood, you might have something in common with Lowell and Joyce Mallard.

The Mallards moved to Litchfield Country Club in 2003, bringing with them decades of stories, strong family roots, and a love for the simple things that make life meaningful. Originally from Durham, North Carolina, Lowell and Joyce met as high school classmates and later married in 1968 — after Lowell made a bold move that still makes Joyce smile to this day.

“I sold my car to buy her engagement ring,” he says, casually but proudly. “It was the only way I could afford it.”

That car sale turned into a marriage that’s lasted more than 57 years, and a life filled with adventure, children, and eventually, a move to the coast they now call home.

Lowell graduated from Western Carolina University with a degree in Industrial Technology. He spent 13 years with Broyhill Furniture before moving into chemical coatings, eventually retiring as a plant manager from Akzo Nobel. Joyce began her career as an X-ray technologist at Duke Hospital, and after raising their children, worked as a preschool teacher while supporting Lowell’s career and community life.

The Mallards raised three children Jennifer, Laura, and Brandon  and now enjoy the joy (and energy) of eight grandchildren. “Family is everything to us,” Joyce says. “It’s why we’re here and why this community means so much.”

Joyce and Lowell’s love for animals runs deep. Since 1992, they’ve had eight golden retrievers. Their current dog, Bella, is a rescue from Grateful Goldens Rescue of the Lowcountry, and has fit right into their lives at LCC.

“She’s just a wonderful dog,” Joyce says. Bella enjoys walks around the neighborhood and keeping Joyce company in the garden. “I love being out there  planting flowers, feeding the birds, just enjoying the quiet.”

Lowell has always had a passion for working on antique cars. These days, he spends his free time working on his latest vehicle, keeping his hands busy and his heart full. “I’ve always enjoyed restoring things,” he says. “There’s something satisfying about bringing an old car back to life.”

He’s also a fan of golf, redfishing in local waters, and yardwork. Their interests balance one another — Joyce with her garden and dogs, Lowell with his classic cars and outdoor projects.
“We’re different in some ways,” Joyce says, “but we’ve always made a good team.”

For the Mallards, what makes LCC feel like home isn’t just the scenery, it’s the people. “Our favorite memories are simple,” Joyce says. “Sitting by the pool with our grandchildren. Meeting neighbors at POA events. Taking long walks with Bella. Just living life at our own pace.”

Thanksgiving holds a special place in their hearts, a holiday that brings together more family members than any other time of year. “It’s always been one of our best traditions,” says Joyce. “It reminds us of everything we’re grateful for.”

After more than two decades in LCC, Lowell and Joyce have seen the neighborhood evolve  but the sense of community has stayed the same. “It’s a pleasant, comfortable place to live,” says Lowell. “And it fits us just right.”