Joyce Winona Ballard

Joyce Winona Ballard, age 88, of Fort Smith passed away on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at Mercy Hospital. She was born in New Hope, Arkansas on September 19, 1934 to the late Schiller Bissell and Sarah Nelson-Bissell. She was a member of the Baptist church. She attended and graduated from Fort Smith High School. Joyce was formerly married to Merl Ballard and had one son, Brandy. She worked in accounting for periods of time at American General, Tidelands Hospital, Northwest Medical Center and Woodforest Dental; all located in Houston, TX. Growing up she enjoyed time with her cousin and best friend, Esta Lou; they loved listening to Johnny Ray and Elvis music. She traveled, was an avid book reader and loved the Razorbacks. She was proud of her two granddaughters, Kacie and Kylie. She is preceded in death by her parents; Sarah and Schiller Bissell. She is survived by her son Brandy Ballard and wife Jana of Fort Smith, grandchildren Kacie Ballard-Stabler and husband Aaron of Russellville and Kylie Ballard-Cate and husband Zach of Bentonville.

Public viewing will be from 12:00pm to 5:00pm Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at Edwards Funeral Home, Graveside service will be 10:00am Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Roselawn Cemetery.