Joyce June Howell

Joyce June Howell, 86, of Johnston City, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

Joyce was born on June 30, 1939, in Hurst to Edwin James and Stella Keirn. She was united in marriage to Larry Leroy Howell on August 22, 1956. Together they shared nearly 70 wonderful years of marriage together.

Joyce attended Hurst High School and spent her working years as a kitchen aide for the Johnston City School District. She faithfully served the students at Washington, Jefferson, and Johnston City High School for many years, helping feed and care for generations of children in the community.

Joyce loved the Lord and was long time faithful member of Whiteash Free Will Baptist Church. She truly had a servant's heart and used it wherever she was needed, helping in the kitchen, caring for the babies in the nursery, or sitting with the elderly. Joyce was always looking for ways to take care of others and lend a helping hand.

Joyce also had knack for knitting. Over the years, she lovingly knitted more the 70 afghans, which she gifted to family and friends she loved dearly, often for special occasions.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Larry Howell of Johnston City; daughter and son-in-law, Debra Sue and Lindell Edwards of Johnston City; son and daughter-in-law, Larry Edwin and Kathryn Howell of Marion; grandson, Christopher (Stephanie) Howell of Marion; granddaughter, Angie (Brett) Bardon of O'Fallon, MO; great-grandchildren, Peyton Howell and Taylor Bardon; sister, Esther Dixon of Desoto.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Robert James Keirn; sisters, Stella Powers and Janet Ann Mainer; niece, Joyce Gosha.

Funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Whiteash Free Will Baptist Church with Pastor Andy Lee officiating. Interment will follow at Blairsville Cemetery.

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Saturday, at the Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Whiteash Free Will Baptist Church. Envelopes will be available at the church the day of the service.

Pyle Funeral Home in Johnston City is entrusted with the arrangements.