Joyce Ann (Ward) Fears

Joyce Ann (Ward) Fears, age 81, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, passed away on January 16, 2025, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Joyce was born on October 31, 1943, in Caldwell, Kansas, to Virginia Mae (Humble) Ward and Robert Lee Ward. She was married to Josh Fears on August 13, 1966, in Caldwell, Kansas. He preceded her in death on December 9, 2014. 

Professionally, Joyce dedicated over 20 years as a secretary for Central Public Schools, where her contributions were valued and appreciated by students and staff alike. Joyce was also a longtime member of the First Baptist Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where she actively participated in church life and fostered friendships that enriched her community.

She is survived by her son, Jason Fears and Rebecca of Fort Smith, Arkansas; her granddaughter, Emily Fears, also of Fort Smith; her sister, Jean Ellen Ward of Cardwell, Kansas; her brother, Steven Robert Ward of Caldwell, Kansas; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and a wide circle of friends and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Josh Fears; her son, Jeffrey Matthew Fears; her parents; and one brother, Johnny Lee Ward.

The community is invited to honor Joyce's life during a viewing scheduled for Monday, January 20, 2025, from 2 PM to 8 PM at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Muldrow, Oklahoma. A funeral service will take place on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 10 AM at the same location, followed by a graveside service at Goodell Cemetery in Drury, Kansas, at 4 PM, later that day.