of Batesville, AR
February 9, 1942 - October 5, 2017
Joyce (Reaves) Richey, 75, of Batesville, Arkansas, died Thursday, October 5, 2017, at her home.
Born February 9, 1942, in Batesville, she was the daughter of James Reaves and Ruby (Hicks) Reaves.
Joyce R. Richey was a true believer in the power of education. When she began her elementary education in Batesville, graduated from Batesville High School, and graduated from Lyon College with a bachelor's degree, her journey of becoming a lifelong educator was set into motion. Joyce taught in Marion, Arkansas for 6 years. The rest of the 55 years as an educator were spent in Batesville as a teacher, principal, and LEP/Migrant coordinator. She received her master's degree from Arkansas State University and a specialist degree from Harding University, but she did not stop there. She continued with workshops, seminars, extra graduate work, and additional teaching certification. She thrived on learning. Her focus for her students, whether in the classroom or as their principal, was to make sure they were acquiring all the skills necessary to complete their education. Her expectations were high and she transferred those high expectations to the students and staff. Teachers responded to her support and leadership skills. She maintained a vast knowledge of the aspects of education; any new program or idea was investigated quickly to see if students could benefit.
Joyce was so proud of her family. Her husband, daughter, and granddaughters were her inspirations. She loved the family trips they took together. She and John were constantly on the road for a birthday party, a school program, a sporting event, or just to see Rachel, Anna and Ruby. She wanted to be that special ''Grand Joyce'' who was always there for them. Having them come for visits were precious times for her, because then she could assume the role of teacher that she loved so much.
She was not just an integral part of the educational process for students of Batesville. She was a behind the scenes contributor for many students and their families in Batesville Schools. She helped many families who needed a step forward in the right direction. She was a giver from the heart, whether it be advice, items of need, monetary help, or just someone to listen. This woman gave herself to others in times of need.
Joyce has served on many committees and worked with many organizations not only to benefit them, but to enjoy being a part of community awareness. She enjoyed time spent with the Independence County Fair as well as the Independence Museum. For her, being a part of something was another learning experience. She felt strongly about the students in the LEP program and worked diligently to help them succeed not only in school but the workforce.
Joyce always used a familiar notation when writing notes, emails, and other correspondence. It was her unique trademark: Cherrio, jrr
She is survived by her husband, John Daniel Richey Jr. of Batesville; daughter, Rachel Lewis of Searcy, Arkansas; two grandchildren, Anna Lewis and Ruby Lewis; niece, Lisa Nicholson of Pensacola, Florida; nephew, Lance Reaves; great-niece, Heather (Reaves) Bennett; and great-nephew, Ashton Nicholson of Pensacola.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Jerry ''Breezy'' Reaves.
Pallbearers will be Israel Corroza, Jorge Vargas, Jose Guevara, Diego Guevara, Juan Medina Jr. and Omar Valdez.
Honorary pallbearers are Matt Lloyd, Dr. Muhammed Khan, the nurses at Batesville Oncology Clinic, Mr. William Coop, Dr. Kenneth James, Mr. Ted Hall, Dr. Michael Hester, Mr. Gary Anderson and Mr. Harvey Howard.
Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 11, 2017, at Harrison Street Church of Christ with Steve Smith officiating.
Interment will be at Oaklawn Cemetery under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home.
Visitation is from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 10, 2017, at the church.
Memorials may be made to send children to camp, Camp Tahkodah, Attn: Meleah McNeal, 915 E. Market Avenue, Box 10844, Searcy, AR 72149
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13 Condolence(s)
Miguel A. Hernandez Jr.
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
My condolences to Joyce family and friends. It was pleasure working with Joyce in a ESL capacity. She was such a great advocate for children. I can still hear her distinctive voice. Rest in Peace my friend.
Jerry Harris
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
So very sorry to hear of Joyce leaving this present world. I worked with Joyce for many years and she will be greatly missed. Will be praying for her family and friends.
Doris Flinn Henke
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Dear Rachel and family, I was so sad to hear of your mom's passing. I am old friend when we were in high school together. I used to get letters from Florida from her. I have a beautiful 8x10 photo of Joyce and it is so lovely and I want you to have it. God's blessings on your entire family. I left my email where you can reach me. Love, Doris
Steve and Dianne Kimbrough
Monday, October 9, 2017
So very sorry. Prayers for the family.
Betty Burge Cockrill
Monday, October 9, 2017
I am so sorry to hear about Joyce. My thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone who worked with and knew Joyce especially her family.
Phyllis Russell
Sunday, October 8, 2017
I am so blessed to have had Joyce in my life. She was not just my principal who gave me the support I needed to be an effective teacher but she became my closest friend. I will miss her so much. Thinking of her wonderful family during this sad time.
Mary Anne
Sunday, October 8, 2017
You will be missed.
Gregory Woods
Sunday, October 8, 2017
I'm so sorry to hear of Joyce’s passing. Loosing a loved one is never easy. I lost my dad in 2010, and my mom in 2012. After my losses, reading Revelation 21:3,4 gave me real comfort. It says: And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away. I hope reading these verses also give you comfort during this difficult time. GW
Laquida Isaacs
Saturday, October 7, 2017
Proverbs 31:10-31 Immediately comes to mind when thinking of Joyce for the way she lived her life on this beautiful earth her great God created for all of us. Continuing prayers for the family.
Charlene Handford Barlow
Saturday, October 7, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of Joyce's passing. We were in school together, including our years at Arkansas/Lyon College. During that time we sometimes "hung out" together. She was such a sweet person and very beautiful. I know she will be missed. My deepest sympathy to her family.
Charlene Handford Barlow
Judy Hobson
Friday, October 6, 2017
Joyce Richey will be remembered by her friends and colleagues as an advocate for students and teachers of students who were and are challenged daily by a language barrier - students and families who are surviving because of teachers like her who truly care about ALL children. She will be sorely missed by all but my heart has a hole in it today as a colleague of hers for more than 20 years. Joyce served on the ARKTESOL Board for more than 10 years, state committees advocating for English learners, and we were already missing her and did not know she was sick. I thought about her last night and wondered why she had missed our last two Board meetings. We are saddened by this loss but her memories will be with us for a long time.
Lindley Barnett
Friday, October 6, 2017
What a remarkable woman, teacher, and mentor.
Peggy Pearce
Friday, October 6, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. So glad we worshipped with Joyce and had the opportunity to know her. She was a sweet, lady with a heart for children. She will be missed. Randy, Peggy and Andy Pearce