DES ARC — Joyce Holt McNeil,

86, passed peacefully to her eternal home, surrounded by her loving family, on August 24, 2021. Joyce was born on September 4, 1934, the daughter of Nathan and Rachael Josephine (Owens) Holt. She graduated from Ola High School as Valedictorian of the class of 1952. She went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in education from Arkansas Tech University. She began her teaching career at Bentonville, Arkansas, teaching math and English. It was at Forest Heights School in Little Rock Arkansas, she met the love of her life, John McNeil. They were married March 13, 1959. They then moved to Maryland where she continued teaching math and English. She finished her career at Des Arc High School where she retired as High School Librarian. She especially enjoyed serving as the yearbook sponsor for many years.

Joyce loved the Lord and was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Des Arc where she served as a Sunday School teacher. She enjoyed sewing and sewed many outfits for her family. She didn’t necessarily enjoy canning, but she spent most of her summer’s canning and freezing the fruits of her husband’s garden.

Joyce is preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 57 years, John L. McNeil; brother, James Holt; and son-in-law, Jamie Cook. She is survived by son, John Patrick (Rose) McNeil; daughter, Johna Cook; grandchildren, Shawna (George) Cook, Aaron Cook, Megan (Kelley) Thomas, Katie (David) Moore; great-grandchildren, Dalton, Kyle, Joseph, Kennedy; sister, Charlene George; special sister-in-law, Lela Mae Rogers; brother- in-law, Mike McNeill; numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends. The family would like to express our thanks for the wonderful help and care given by Elite Home Health, Elite Hospice, and the caregivers of Allcare of Blytheville, especially Anthony Smith.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to First Baptist Church Des Arc or the charity of your choice. Joyce was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, teacher, and dear friend, who will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of faith and family.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 28, at 2 p.m., at the First Baptist Church, Des Arc, with Bro. Melvin York officiating. Burial will be held in Hickory Plains cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 until service time. www.garthfuneralhome.com.