JOYCE HOWARD

Joyce Knighton Howard, age 87, of De Kalb, TX, passed away Monday October 17th, 2022, at home. Services will be Saturday, October 22nd at Wards Creek Baptist Church. Visitation will be at 9am followed by the service at 10am. She was born January 6th, 1935, to Caver and Mae Knighton in Buckner, AR. She grew up on the farm enjoying simple country life. After graduating high school, she went to Draughon School of Business in Little Rock. There she was introduced by church friends to her future husband, Ken Howard. They were wed August 31st, 1956, in Temple Baptist Church in Little Rock. She continued to have four daughters and lived out her days on the farm in De Kalb, seeing all her children marry and have kids of their own, and was able to meet her great grandchildren. You could always rely on an email from Granny that she sent out to her family members at the end of every day. Joyce/Mamma/Granny leaves an incredible legacy of humility, hospitality, service, and perseverance. She was never one for the spotlight or needing to receive praise for her work, but always labored behind the scenes. Whether washing dishes for a funeral or being the sole caretaker at home, she was a strong and steady force. She is survived by her husband Dr. Ken Howard of De Kalb, TX and her daughters: Evelyn and Chris Follet of Greenville TX, Freida and David Houck of Taft, TN, Misty and Leaon King of De Kalb, TX, and son-in-law Randy Clark of Longview, TX. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, brother Ray Knighton of Stamps, AR and twin brother Loyce and Corina Knighton of League City, TX. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Cheryl Clark of Longview, TX, her parents, and 7 siblings. Online Registration at www.batesfamilyfuneralhome.com.