1950-2024
Glenda Joyce (Tipton) Smith, 74 years of age, passed from her earthly home into the arms of her Savior on Oct. 31, 2024. She was surrounded by her family in her last hour and transitioned peacefully into her Heavenly home just as she had prayed for.
Joyce was born in Almyra, Arkansas on January 18, 1950. She was educated in Almyra, Dewitt, and Star City schools. She met the love of her life at 17 years old, Buddy, while she worked as a waitress at Ballard’s Dairy Dip in Star City. He had just returned home from his tour of duty in the Vietnam War and stopped in for a hamburger. They married on January 21, 1968, just three days after she turned 18, and would have celebrated 57 years together in just a few months. She was a wonderful Railroad wife and always welcomed him home from a trip with a hot meal and open arms.
Joyce was a faithful member of New Home MBC where she taught Sunday School and was also involved in her Ladies Auxiliary. She loved the Lord with all her heart, served him consistently, and was a living testimony even at her sickest moments. She witnessed and talked about Jesus everywhere she went. She always wanted to leave a good legacy, and she did that up until the very end.
Joyce was an amazing Mother and Memaw. She loved with her whole heart. She is best known for her selfless, giving spirit always wanting to give to the Lord’s work and supporting missionaries even if she just donated her beautiful dresses to their little girls. She was always known for her amazing sewing abilities and her cooking skills.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Aubra and Elsie Mae (Bronson) Tipton of Stuttgart and two brothers, Melvin Tipton and Joe Tipton, both of Star City.
She is survived by her husband James (Buddy) Smith of Cornerville. Two children, Terri (Brent) Willett of Woodlawn, and Jason (Kelly) Smith of Cornerville. Five grandchildren, Kyle Willett, Katie (Austin) Steffler, Weston (Nicole) Smith, Micah Smith and Landon Smith. Three great-grandchildren, Wilson and Ivy Jean Smith, and one on the way. Joyce was also blessed with two bonus granddaughters, Sierra (Aaron) Tipton, Autumn (Cody) Magby, Four bonus great-grandchildren, Caisen Magby, Mason, Emerson and Addison Tipton. Three brothers, James (Betty) Tipton of Stuggart, Jimmy (Vivian) Tipton of Palmyra, Shelby (Melody) Tipton of Jacksonville. Two sister-in-laws, Alice Tipton of Conerville and Margarette Tipton of Palmyra, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Joyce was very loved by her wonderful church families, past and present and a host of many other family and friends.
Visitation will be, Monday, November 4, 2024 at New Home Missionary Baptist Church from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM. Funeral Services are 2:00 PM Monday, following visitation at New Home Missionary Baptist Church with Bro. Joseph Pemberton and Bro. John Marlar officiating. Burial will be in Rowell Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Kevin McGilton, Lance Allred, Marty Reed, Randy Blasengame,Ricky Collins, and Steve Slaughter. Honorary Pallbearers are Noah Allred, Larry Johnson, and Mack Owen. Memorials may be made to New Home Missionary Baptist Church, 14060 Hwy 54, Pine Bluff Ar. 71603.
