Joyce Hankton Gordon

Joyce Hankton Gordon, of Slidell, Louisiana, peacefully departed this life on February 14, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on September 17, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Joyce lived a life defined by quiet strength, unwavering faith, deep compassion, and an abiding devotion to family.

Joyce was the cherished daughter of the late Lillian Jones Hankton and George Hankton Sr. She was united in marriage to the late Weldon Gordon Jr. Joyce was also preceded in death by her beloved siblings, Doretha Hankton, George Hankton Jr., and Diane Hankton, all of whom she held close in heart throughout her life.

She leaves behind, to honor and celebrate her memory, her loving children, Cortez Hankton Sr. (Ditra Hankton), Glenn Gordon, and Deidra Gordon Thomas (Roosevelt Thomas Jr.). Joyce was the proud and devoted grandmother of Cortez Hankton Jr., Cortney Hankton, Roosevelt Thomas III, Cordae Hankton, Dimitri Willis, and Meghan Thomas Celestine, and the adoring great-grandmother of Jaiden Hankton, Ace Thomas, Cortez "Trip" Hankton III, Noire Celestine, Cruz Hankton, Judah Hollis, Jett Willis, and Croix Brumbaugh. She is also survived by her loving sisters, Delores Payton, Lillian Jackson, Bertha Hankton, Claudette Hankton, Doris Simpson, and Carolyn Buckles, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends whose lives she touched in countless ways.

Joyce dedicated her professional life to serving others as an administrator at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. She was known for her steady leadership, strong work ethic, and the kindness she extended to colleagues and patients alike. She carried herself with dignity and purpose, always striving to make things better for those around her.

Joyce embraced life's simple joys. She delighted in her favorite soap operas, enjoyed trips to the casino, and, above all, treasured time spent surrounded by her family. Whether sharing stories, offering wisdom, or simply sitting in laughter, Joyce created moments that became lasting memories. Her presence was a source of comfort, her love was constant, and her faith was an anchor for generations.

Joyce's legacy is one of love, resilience, and family unity. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the lives she nurtured, the values she instilled, and the countless hearts she touched.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Audubon Funeral Home in Slidell. A funeral service will begin in the chapel at noon, followed by interment at Audubon Memorial Gardens Cemetery. A repast concluding at 3:00 p.m. will be held in Audubon's Community Room following burial. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.AudubonFuneralHome.com