Lela Joyce Brister Smithie was born Aug. 10, 1937, to Early Ray and Geneva Lois Brister. She called Ruth her home for most of her life. Her faith in Jesus ensured her true home was in Heaven, and Joyce was called to that eternal home on Feb 20, 2019.

She is preceded in death by her father; mother; one brother, Hugh Denver Brister; one sister, Mildred Earline Walker, her husband Donald Smithie, and her son, Ronny Smithie.

Survivors include her daughter, Bonita Smithie Britt, of Ruth; her sister, Mary Edwards, and husband, Jimmy, of Bush, Louisiana; sister-in-law, Barbara Randall, and husband, Gene, of Jayess; sister-in-law, Patsy Parkman, and husband, Lowry, of Jayess and two grandsons, Jonathan Britt, of Ruth, and Stuart Britt and wife, Ashlee, of Madison. Joyce was blessed with three great-grandchildren whom she loved dearly, Addi, Benna, and Judah.

Visitation for Mrs. Smithie is Thursday, Feb. 21, 2019, from 5-9 p.m. at Providence Baptist Church. Funeral services will be Friday, Feb. 22, 2019, at 11 a.m. at Providence Baptist Church with burial at Ruth Cemetery.

Riverwood Family is in charge of arrangements.