Joyce Joleen Kirkhart, 71, of Ottumwa, died at 1:15 p.m. June 11, 2024 at Good Samaritan Society – Ottumwa.
She was born August 13, 1952 in Ottumwa to Grover and Mona Baugh Durham.
A resident of Ottumwa all of her life, Joyce attended The Bridge Church. She loved to cook, play shuffleboard and BINGO and especially loved playing cards with her family.
Joyce treasured time with her family and friends and was always there when you needed her. She loved her cats and dogs and would feed any stray.
Over the last few months of her life, Joyce attended Kindred Care, whose staff have been wonderful.
Surviving are her children, Lisa (Todd) Tennis and Shawn Kirkhart both of Ottumwa; granddaughter, Seaira Bachman (Austin Fisk); additional granddaughter, Jessica Lloyd; 4 great-grandchildren, Aubrey Bachman, Makayla Bachman, Makenna Bachman and Chandler Bachman; nieces and nephews, Larry Bradley, James (Roberta) Bradley, Scott Bradley, Brian (Jennifer) Bradley, Coty Brownlee (Brett) and Theresa (Dale) Szuminski; many great-nieces and great-nephews; and her best friend, Doris Rump.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Ruth Bradley and Diana Ludwig; and the love of her life, Frank Parks who was her companion for 23 years.
Visitation will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, June 14th at Reece Funeral Home. The family will be present to greet friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 15th at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor Danny Cary officiating. Burial will be in Shaul Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Heartland Humane Society.
