Joyce Mae Richardson

Joyce Mae Richardson, a beacon of kindness and warmth, passed away on December 17, 2025, in New Albany, Indiana. Born on April 27, 1943, in Campbellsville, Kentucky, Joyce lived a life filled with compassion, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to her family and faith.

For 20 years, Joyce dedicated herself as a Clinical Assistant at the Hardin County Health Center, where her kindhearted nature and willingness to help others made a lasting impact on those around her. She cherished her role, not just as a career but as a way to serve her community. Upon retiring at the age of 68, she embraced a new chapter in her life, one where her love for her family flourished.

Joyce was proud of her educational roots as a high school graduate of Taylor County High School in Kentucky. Her pride, however, extended beyond her academic achievements; her family was her greatest accomplishment. She was blessed with two beloved daughters, Sheila Elizabeth Beard and Angela Deniece (Bob) Bailey, as well as grandchildren Sean David Beard, Jacob Benjamin (Meghan) Beard, and Kara Whitney (Cody) Parmely. The joy of her life multiplied with the arrival of her great-grandchildren-Blakely, Ezekiel, Savannah, Eliana, Colton, Jaxon, Easton, and another cherished little one on the way. To Joyce, these family members were her pride and joy, filling her world with love and laughter.

A member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in New Albany, Joyce found profound happiness in her faith. She was proud to know Jehovah, and the teachings enriched her life, bringing her immense joy and peace. Her spirit radiated kindness, and her generosity knew no bounds, touching the lives of many.

Joyce was not only devoted to her family and faith, but she was sweet, funny and had a vibrant personality. She was an avid reader, finding delight in the pages of countless books. Her love of food and movies painted her life with a palette of delights. She appreciated the world’s creations as she marveled at flowers and lost herself in birdwatching. Each hobby reflected her exuberant spirit and deep appreciation for the beauty around her.

Joyce is survived by her two beloved daughters, Sheila Elizabeth Beard and Angela Deniece (Bob) Bailey, grandchildren Sean David Beard, Jacob Benjamin (Meghan) Beard, and Kara Whitney (Cody) Parmely; her great-grandchildren-Blakely, Ezekiel, Savannah, Elaina, Colton, Jaxon, Easton, and another cherished little one on the way; loving brother, Samuel (Virginia) Stewart; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Millard and Nora Elizabeth Stewart, her cherished granddaughter Sara Bailey, and her great grandson Zane Beard. Joyce will rest in peace with her siblings who have passed on: Dale Stewart, Faye Stewart, Shirley Stewart, and Jimmy Stewart.

As we celebrate the life of Joyce Mae Richardson, we remember her as a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend-a woman whose kind heart and giving spirit will always inspire those who knew and loved her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her love and legacy will forever endure in the hearts of her family and friends.