Joyce Farris

Joyce Christine Farris of Potosi, Missouri, was born on December 9, 1944, in St Louis, Missouri, a daughter of the late Cecil Joseph Ward and the late Rosie Lena (DeGonia) Ward. Joyce passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023, having reached the age of 78.

Those who remain to cherish her memory include her husband of 63 years, Benjamin Farris; children: Barbie Hayes and Lyle Fuller, Betty Brawley and Dave, David Farris (wife, Sandra), Jimmy Farris (wife, Kelly), Crystal Medlock (husband, Rodney); grandchildren: Adam (Christian) Hayes, Derick (Lauren) Hayes, Mikel Farris, Jonie Boyer, Rena Boyer, Andrew (Logan) Farris, Olivia Thebeau, Brandon Seville, Garth Farris and Cheyenne, Thadeus Farris, Stephanie O’Neal, Jesseca (David) Mabe, and Chloe Medlock; 18 great-grandchildren; brother, James Ward; special niece, Ruth Reece (husband, Junior), as well as other nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her siblings: Alice Banks, Loretta Richards, Delphine Farris, Lena Sue Ward, Catherine Bone, Donald Ward, Ace Ward, and Theodore Ward; father-in-law and mother-in-law: Judson and Rosie Farris; and other dear relatives.

Joyce enjoyed playing rummy, Skip-Bo, sewing, and making handmade angel ornaments at Christmas time. She collected many things including porcelain dolls and tea pots. Joyce was funny and had a great sense of humor, and loved giving advice when asked. She was a loving wife, mother, grandma, and dog mom to her puppies, Bella and Sophia. One of her favorite memories was the anniversary drive to Meramec Caverns with Ben, and eating a coconut cake, much like the one from their wedding in 1960 at New Diggins Church. She loved living life with Ben and going on trips to Branson with him. Joyce also loved John Wayne, Golden Girls, and the Hallmark Channel.

Visitation will be Sunday, July 16, 2023, from 5 to 8 pm at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will continue on Monday, July 17, 2023, from 9 to 11 am.

A Funeral Service will be Monday, July 17, 2023, at 11 am, held at the DeClue Memorial Chapel, officiated by Pastor Matt Woods. Interment will follow at Redbud Memorial Gardens in Potosi.

DeClue Funeral Home was honored to have served the family of Mrs. Joyce Farris.