Joyce Laverne Stewart Smith's Obituary
Joyce Laverne Stewart Smith peacefully passed away on November 10, 2023, at the age of 90 in Maurice, Louisiana. Born on June 3, 1933, in Big Sandy, Texas, Joyce was a beloved mother, mother-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, friend and cherished member of her community.
On June 19, 1954, Joyce married the love of her life, the late Bobbie E. Smith. Family was of utmost importance to Joyce. She was a devoted mother to her sons Richard Smith and wife Debbie of Russellville, KY; Steven Smith and wife Lisa of Lafayette, LA; and William Smith and partner Denise Alliston of Marshall, TX. Additionally, her sister-in-law Helen Stewart was a source of deep affection and companionship. Her grandchildren, Stan Moss, Kasey Moss, Taylor Smith, Trevor Smith, Jade Smith, Kara Smith, and Will Smith were the pride and joy of her life. She also leaves behind her great-grandchildren, Knox Smith, Preston Moss and wife Kayla, Lane Talbert, Kali Colbert and husband Kyle, Tyler Moss, four great-great-grandchildren as well as many cherished nieces and nephews
Joyce is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bobbie E. Smith, her father John Summer Stewart of Longview, TX, her mother Bertha Irene Barnes of White Oak, Texas and her grandson James Rickey Moss of Tyler, TX. She also mourned the loss of her brothers Jack Stewart, Harold Stewart, Charles Stewart, Jerry Stewart, Frank Stewart, and Dr. Larry Stewart.
Throughout her working life Joyce demonstrated dedication and ambition, starting as a secretary at various places and eventually ascending to the position of Director of Human Resources for Blocker Energy Corp, where she retired. She was a true inspiration to her colleagues.
Joyce was a remarkable woman who possessed a delightful sense of humor, kindness beyond measure, fierce compassion, and a brilliant mind. Her compassionate nature was a guiding light, a constant source of comfort, and a testament to the goodness that resides within the human heart. For many years she wrote stories from her life, family, friends, travels, and travails. Joyce’s stories have been collected in a book titled *Window Of Tomorrow. In these narratives, you can view life as a frightened child, an enthusiastic teenager, an adventurous bride, a working mother, a dedicated wife, and a fun-loving friend, all through the eyes of one kind, bright soul. A soul who lit up every place she ever entered, who never met a stranger, and whose laughter embodied joy. *Joyce’s book, Window of Tomorrow, can be found by searching for “Joyce Stewart Smith window” on Amazon.com or Google.
As a lifelong Christian, Joyce found solace and strength in her faith. She worshiped at various places of Christian worship throughout her life, and her faith guided her to be the compassionate and loving person she was. She maintained a close relationship with Jesus Christ throughout her life and she and Bob raised their three children in that faith.
Joyce Smith will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will forever be cherished by her loving family and her friends, a testament to her strength of character and her legacy of unconditional love that touched the hearts of so many. May she rest in eternal peace and may she continue to inspire us all.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:
Operation Restored Warrior https://operationrestoredwarrior.org/
Lamm Family Care https://www.lamm.care
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