Joyce Gardner

In the kind providence of God, the Father, Joyce Sykes Gardner, 83, of Jackson, MS, was called home to rest with her Lord on March 29, 2025.

Joyce was born in New Hebron, MS, to Benjamin and Inez Sykes on October 14, 1941.  She attended school at New Hebron High and graduated in 1959.  She lived in Jackson, MS, for over 65 years where she worked with young children for 30 of those years.  Her two greatest passions were instructing children and serving in her church.  She was an active member of Leavell Woods United Methodist Church where she was on the Board of Trustees, PPR Committee, Youth Leader, Hostess, and cooked many meals for the Saints. 

Joyce was married to Walton Jayroe and Lynwood Gardner.  She is survived by her daughter Brenda Bland (Raymond) and son, Ben Gardner (Marie), sister, Mary Emily Connor and brother, Fred Sykes.  The Lord blessed her family with six grandchildren, Baron Bland, Aaron Gardner, Parker Gardner, Sydnie Harris, Hanna Gardner, and Mary Morgan Gardner and six great grandchildren, whom she loved dearly.

Joyce was faithful to provide.  She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.