Joyce Marie Matthews

Joyce, lovingly known as “Nanna” to those who knew and adored her, lived a full and vibrant life centered around family, faith, and the simple joys that brought her happiness each day. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas Ralph “PaPa” Matthews, her daughter, Tona Rene Turnbeaugh, her father, LeRoy Anders, her mother, Marie Thomas, her step-father Marlon Thomas, her brother, Tyrone Anders, Larry Anders and her brother, Dennis Anders.

She is survived by her two children, Karen Elaine Kirby and Thomas Ralph “Matt” Matthews Jr.; her grandchildren, William “Billy” Kovatch III (Madyson), Teddy Turnbeaugh (Carolina), and Brandon Kirby; her cherished great-grandsons, Baylor and Callen Kovatch; and her siblings, Lamar Anders (Jan), Dolores Tate, and Peggy Matthews (Donald).

Joyce had a deep love for gardening and could often be found tending to her yard, where her flowers and plants flourished under her care. She was especially known for her ability to grow orchids beautifully, a skill she took great pride in. She was an excellent cook who brought people together through her meals, and she found joy in antiquing and collecting unique and meaningful furniture pieces.

A true beach lover, Joyce enjoyed spending time by the ocean, especially collecting shark teeth—one of her favorite pastimes. She was strong-willed, independent, and carried that spirit with her all the way to the end of her life.

More than anything, Joyce cherished her family. She especially loved getting sweet “neck sugar” from her great-grandsons, whom she lovingly called her “vitamins”—a reflection of just how much joy and energy they brought to her life.

Her faith was a cornerstone of who she was. Joyce loved her church and the Lord deeply, and that devotion guided her throughout her life.

A viewing will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Riverside Event Pavilion, 1373 Memorial Park Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32205. Funeral services will take place on April 25, 2026, at 12:00 PM, with a reception to follow at the same venue as the viewing.

Joyce will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her strength, her love of family, and the beauty she created in the world around her.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” – Proverbs 31:25

Joyce Marie “Nanna” Matthews, 89, of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026.