Joyce Ann Walker

Joyce Ann (Martin) Walker age 86 passed peacefully in her sleep after a wonderful and fulfilling life on February 24th, 2016. She was born in Herrin, Illinois to parents Neil Martin and Louise Jenkins both of whom have preceded her in death along with her husband John Wayne Walker; and her brother Charles Martin. Joyce was a square dancer and round dancer, an avid bowler bowling in many leagues. She is survived by her daughter Linda Francis (Bill); son Gregory Walker (Susan); grandchildren Autumn Vaughns (Chris), Aubrey Bolton (Michael), Atalie Marshall (Andres); great grandchildren Christion, Ariana, Anelize, Alexander, and Alicia; several nieces and nephews and her companion pet of 14 years Heather.

Fill not your heart with pain and sorrow,

but remember me in every tomorrow.

I've only gone to rest a little while.

Although my leaving causes pain and grief,

dry your eyes and remember me

I will remember you all and look on with a smile,

Understand, in your hearts, I've only gone to rest a little while.

As long as I have the love of each of you,

I can live my life in the hearts of all of you.

I'D Rather Have a Little Rose

I had rather have a little rose from

the garden of a friend;

Than to have a basket full,

when my stay on earth shall end.

I had rather have one kind word,

and a smile that I can see:

than to have all the flattery

when from earth-life I am free;

I had rather have one smile,

from a friend I know is true:

than tears shed round my casket,

when this world, I bid adieu.