of Little Rock, AR
October 8, 1922 - June 21, 2016
Joyce Bradley Ward, born on October 8, 1922 in Sedalia, Missouri, died surrounded by her family on June 21, 2016. Her parents were Brooks B. and Gladys Bradley. She lived a gracious life, loving unselfishly, enjoying the company of family and friends and trusting in God's grace given through His Son, Jesus Christ, and not in her own efforts.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Tommy, who loved and admired her. She is survived by her son, Darrell (Donna); daughter, Diane North (Mark) and son, Doug (Becky); grandchildren, Darren Ward, Darla Ogle, Dana Vick, Darci Hahn, Douglas North, Dustin Ward, Rebekah Ward and Davis Ward; ten great-grandchildren; and sisters, Marian Bradley, Patsy Brethen and Linda Clinedinst.
Joyce was a graduate of Smith-Cotton High School in Sedalia and of Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar, Missouri. She excelled in numerous roles: wife, mother, teacher, editor of the Arkansas Democrat Society section and supervisor at the Arkansas Merit System. She excelled to the highest level in her role as Meemaw. She loved well. She and Tommy were grateful for each other.
Visitation will be at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211, (501) 224-8300 at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 24, 2016 with the funeral service to follow at 12:00 p.m at the funeral home. The family will conduct a private graveside service at Pinecrest Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Immanuel Baptist Church or the Arkansas Alzheimer's Association.
"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms" Deuteronomy 33:27
So very sorry to hear about this loss. When I was in LR last year and visited my Mom and Dad at the cemetery, I thought she may have passed away.
She was such a dear sweet lady and good friend to my Mom. She and Tommy embraced my Mom and Dad's friendship and when my children came along and would visit my Mom, Tommy would always take them fishing and Joyce would always send a snack along with them.
May she rest in peace. Take care, my prayers and thoughts are with you.
We went to church with this sweet lady. Her smile was what I remember and her gracious friendly manner. It has been years since we have seen her but we know she was a loss to the earth and all who knew her, but she is found now with her Lord. We will see her again! So sorry for your loss of her presence. Ray & Rita Ebert
So sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the words spoken at John 5:28,29
(28). "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice (29) and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, and those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment".
Darrell, Diane, & Doug-
I am sad to learn of the passing of your Mom from this earth but can't help but smile to think of the happy reunion between your Mom and Dad "up there". I pray that the sadness of the near-term will soon be pushed aside by all of the good memories of family.
Johnny Quinn
Wanted to say I'm thinking of you all and wishing I could be there....but keeping you all close in thoughts and prayers and going through sweet memories of Aunt Joyce which brings big smiles to my face.
Love you ,
Ronna
My sincere condolences to Joyce's family and friends. Over 35 years ago, Joyce hired me at the Arkansas Merit System. She was my first boss in a real job. I was only 18 years old. Joyce was always very kind and encouraging to me. I am privileged to have known and worked with her. I am praying for God's comfort to you all.
Debbie Chancey
Larry and I are out of town but wanted to express our deepest sympathy in the loss of your mom. She was such a classy lady and I can't recall a time when I saw her that she wasn't smiling. We will be praying for your family in the days ahead as you adjust to the hole that has been left in your family.
Sorry we couldn't be there today! Loved Mrs. Ward! Will keep you all in my prayers.
Doug,
My heart was saddened when I noticed the passing of your mom but with it also brought back many fond memories. My wife and I are traveling out of state this week so I'm unable to make it to today's services but I did warn to pass along my condolences as well as my commitment of prayer for you, Darrell, Diane and all of the family.
Hi Diane, I am so sorry about your Mom. She was such a special lady and always so sweet to me. I have a lot of precious memories with your family. Praying for all of you. Love, Debbie Bain Redmon
Joyce was much loved by the Elizabeth Class of Immanuel (as was Tommy).
Claudine Waters
Doug,
I was sorry to read of your mother's passing. What a beautiful obituary! I remember her just as you described, a very gracious woman. I will be thinking of you.
Pam
I worked with Joyce for several years at the Arkansas Merit System. She was such a nice person, always caring and very good at her job. She and Tommy were special people.
My prayer is that God will surround your entire family with His great love, grace and peace during this time of loss.
Thoughts and prayers go out to each one of you !
I visited many times with Mrs. Ward at the Assisted Living facility
as my brother was also living there ! She was the sweetest person
and always had a big smile !
Karen Ragan Davis
Wishing you peace at this sad time and God's love .
We are lifting all of you up with prayers of comfort,peace and strength.
my mother & I visited with Mrs. Ward at the nursing home - she was so sweet and had the most wonderful smile - we will miss her - God Bless her family
Our love and prayers to your family...