Joyce Joshiphene Harrelson

Joyce Joshiphene Harrelson, affectionately known as "Jo," was born on October 14, 1939, in Salem, Arkansas, to her loving parents Kenney Huff Sr and Ruby White Huff. She peacefully passed away on June 27, 2024, in Gautier, MS.

Throughout her life, Joyce touched the hearts of many with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family.

She was a devoted mother to her children Cheryl (Raymond) Ryan, Barbara Stacey, James Penn, David Harrelson, and her daughter-in-law Lori Penn. 

In addition to her children, Joyce is survived by her cherished grandchildren: Tojuana Daniels, Brenda (Bill) Sherman, Samantha (Balin) Stratton, Roger Chaney, Stella Chaney, Jacob Penn, Kenny Penn, Regina (Mike) Schroeder, Robert (Kim) Bailey, Michael Penn, Crystal Stacey, Kayelee (Jeffrey) Hawkins, Chance (Bethany) Harrelson, and Savannah (Lincoln) Hardison; 24 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Betty Harris, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.  

Joyce was a pillar of strength and guidance to her family and friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents Kenney Huff Sr and Ruby White Huff; her daughter Donna Chaney and her son John A. Penn Jr; her sister Phyllis 'Jean' (Lawrence 'Larry') Vickery and brother Kenney (Donna) Huff Jr.  Her former husbands John A. Penn Sr and Charley D. Harrelson.  

Joyce Harrelson was born in Arkansas, where she accepted Christ as a young child, setting the foundation for a life of faith and service. As young teenagers, Joyce and her sister Betty Faye Harris sang together at Christian youth meetings, showcasing their musical talents and devotion. 

After graduating from Salem High School, Joyce moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where she worked at Hallmark Cards. It was during this time that she met and married her first husband, with whom she had five children. Although this marriage eventually ended in divorce, it marked an important chapter in her life. 

Joyce later entered into a second marriage, which brought the birth of her sixth child. In 1976, she relocated with her second husband and children to Mississippi, where she would remain for the rest of her life. The family settled into a house that would become Joyce's home for decades to come.

Throughout her adult life, Joyce's commitment to her faith remained strong. She taught children's church and Bible school, always eager to help and share her knowledge wherever she could. Her dedication to education extended to her own pursuits, as she later graduated from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

Joyce's career included working at the "Swingster" plant in Ocean Springs until her retirement. She was an active member of the Church of God in Gautier, Mississippi, where she joined a quilting group that created handmade quilts for the homeless, distributed free of charge.

A woman of many talents, Joyce had a passion for crafting with wood, fabric, and thread. During her time at the jacket company, she ensured that everyone she knew had a jacket, often making them from scraps collected at work. She was also an accomplished cook who took pride in making everything from scratch, her homemade meals a testament to her love for family and friends.

Joyce's nurturing spirit extended beyond her own six children. She became a beloved grandmother figure to many neighborhood children, a role she cherished. Her home, which she had lived in since 1976, became a welcoming place for both family and community.

Joyce Harrelson's life was characterized by her strong faith, creativity, generosity, and love for her family and community. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her faith, handmade creations, home-cooked meals, and nurturing spirit.

A woman of grace and compassion, Joyce's legacy of love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd, in West Jackson County is proudly serving the Harrelson family. Please share memories, condolence and photos at www.riemannfamily.com.