Joy Anita Stockwell passed from this life on Dec. 13, 2023, in Ardmore, Oklahoma. She was born on March 28, 1940, in Seadrift, Texas. She married Willard “Bill” Stockwell on Dec. 5, 2003, and they had just shared their 20th anniversary.
Joy’s most recent role involved providing palliative care at Cross Timbers Hospice.
Her passion for baking and preparing meals for others was evident in her daily life. Joy used the kitchen as a canvas. The baked items she prepared were more than just food; they were expressions of love and care.
Joy’s garden was a masterpiece, a testament to her skill and dedication. Each carefully tended flower and thoughtfully arranged plant reflected not only her love for gardening but also her artistic touch, turning the outdoor space into a living work of art. She even achieved recognition as a Master Gardener.
Her unwavering love for animals, particularly her three cherished fur babies, was a testament to the compassion that defined her life. They were not just pets; they were cherished members of her family.
Joy departed from this world peacefully, embraced by the warmth and love of her devoted family. Surrounded by those who held her dear, she transitioned into eternal rest.
She is preceded in death by her sons, Bobby Knox Millhollon, Jr. and Michael Ray Millhollon; parents, Woodrow and Ida Mae Smith; and brother, Kenneth Smith.
She is survived by her husband, Willard “Bill” Stockwell of the home; children: Mary Ann Eubank and husband Gary, Donna Millhollon, Melisa Smith and husband Randy, Mark Millhollon and wife Tamela and step-daughters, Kristine Focht and Cindy Bloom; grandchildren: Hunter Bellavigna, Dakota Bellavigna, Asher Bellavigna, Matthew Millhollon, Robert Millhollon, Gary Eubank, Jr., Christy Smith, Joshua Eubank, Rusty Wood, Misty Moody, and many loving step-grandchildren. Her great-grandchildren include Samuel Lambeth, Joshua James Lambeth, Nate Smith, Landon Eubank, Noah Eubank, Riley Eubank, Nate Harrington, Parker Eubank, Payton Eubank.
Services for Joy will be held at Craddock Funeral Home, 525 S. Commerce Street in Ardmore, Oklahoma, at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 with Dr. David Daniel officiating. A reception is to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Crosstimbers Hospice on behalf of Joy Stockwell.