Joyce was born August 6, 1955 in Tiffin, OH to the late Lee Forrest Smith and Selma Plemmons Smith. She worked for Baxter Healthcare for many years before developing MS and becoming disabled.
In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by her husband, John Patrick Bates and two sisters, Grace Henderson and Mildred Parker.
Left behind to cherish Joyce’s memory are four siblings, Doris Burnette, Wayne Smith and wife, Rebecca, Bryan Smith and wife, Linda and Lois Biddix and numerouse nieces and nephews.
In keeping with Joyce’s wishes no services will be held at this time.
Those wishing to make a donation in Joyce’s memory are asked to consider American Red Cross, PO Box 4002018, Des Moines, IA 50340. www.redcross.org
Kirksey Funeral Home of Marion is honored to be serving the family.
