AVA – Joyce A. Smith, 91, of Ava, passed away on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at her home in Ava, Illinois.

Joyce was born in Herrin, IL, on January 25, 1932, the daughter of Homer and Isabell (Ford) Hindman. She married William E. Smith, Sr. on July 2, 1949, in Forrest City, IL. He preceded her in death on December 19, 2017. Joyce was a retired, very accomplished floral designer. She was a member of the Crain Baptist Church, Ava, IL, Peoria Motorcycle Club Auxiliary, Jackson County Home Extension, and the Red Hatters.

Surviving is her daughter, Linda Ann (Luke Cox) Smith of Ava, IL, her grandchildren: William E. Smith III (Lamia), Shannon H. Walden (Joan), Jeffery S. Smith, Zedekiah J. Smith; her great grandchildren: Tony Joe, Kyle Henry, Delany, Teeghan Raye, Josh (Nicole); her great great grandchildren: Naevia, Brooklyn; her brother, Jack Hindman, and her sister-in-law, Bobbie Hindman.

Joyce is also preceded in death by her parents, her sons, William E. Smith, Jr, and James Smith, and her brother, Bert Hindman.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 10, 2023, where friends may call from 10:00 to 11:00 am, at Wilson's Funeral Home, Ava, IL.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 10, at 11:00 am, at Wilson's Funeral Home, Ava, IL, with Rev. Tim Olson officiating.  Burial will follow at Crain Cemetery, Ava, IL.  Memorials may be given to Crain Baptist Church or Crain Cemetery, c/o Wilson's Funeral Home, PO Box 277, Ava, IL, 62907.