Joyce Aileen Vandegrift Smith, 75, passed away on January 30, 2025, in Benton, AR. Born on June 15, 1950, in North Little Rock to Mary “Floogie” and Al “Pappy” Vandegrift, Joyce grew up surrounded by a lively, close family.
After graduating from North Little Rock High School in 1968, she held positions at Beach Abstract, Target Distribution Center, Weight Watchers and Service Merchandise Corp. Although she spent most of her life in Central Arkansas, she also lived more than 20 years in Columbia, Tenn. She loved her time there but never stopped cheering for the Razorbacks.
She is survived by her son, Tom Melson, and his wife, Alison, of Little Rock; her grandsons, Sam Melson of Conway and Owen Melson of Silverthorne, Col.; her sister, Betty Webb (John) of Benton; and numerous nieces and nephews who she loved dearly. To her beloved grandsons, she was affectionately known as “Memaw Joyce,” and to her great nieces and nephews she was lovingly known as “NuNu.”
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, and sisters, Carol Ann Vandegrift and Lynn Hutto (Jerry), and brother, Dick Vandegrift.
In her final years, Joyce was surrounded by love and support. Her niece Anita Sturch, her sister Betty, and her brother-in-law John were especially devoted, helping Tom as they cared for Joyce together. He will forever be grateful. The family also thanks the staff at Alcoa Pines and Arkansas Hospice for the compassion they showed.
A private family gathering to honor Joyce’s life will be held on Sunday, Feb. 8.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
2 Comments
Oh, Aunt Joycie! I have so many wonderful (and HILARIOUS) memories with you. Your love for family, dry humor, and great storytelling will live on in all of us that were lucky enough to have you in our lives. There will never be another like my Aunt Joycie.
Love, Jason
This is such a sad time for all who knew Joyce. She moved to Tennessee many years ago and married my brother. A few years later her niece comes for a visit and soon marries my son. Joyce helped to care for my mother and father when they became ill. They both loved her like a daughter. She was very close to my grandchildren, hence the name NuNu that they gave her. Joyce was a part of our family here even after she and my brother divorced and she moved back to Arkansas. She could be funny while being serious at the same time. I’m really going to miss her as her entire family will. Love you Joyce.
Add Comment