Becky Boyd

(From Parker Mortuary)

Rebecca Sue Boyd, age 74, Joplin, passed away on Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at Freeman West Hospital after a sudden illness. 

Rebecca was born January 20, 1943 in Joplin, daughter of the late Granvil Boyd and Lorayne Maryman Boyd. A graduate of Joplin High School, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Pittsburg State University, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from The University of Oklahoma. “Becky” was a fierce advocate for women and victims of domestic violence. She was among the first employees of The Family Self Help Center, the organization that later became The Lafayette House. A lifelong book lover, Becky worked as a librarian at the Joplin Public Library, and managed the Walden Book Store before starting her career in social work. She then worked for Oxford Healthcare, and for a number of years at St. John's Hospital. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister and best friend, Marcia Louise Boyd. Survivors include her only daughter, Callie Parazine of Joplin, beloved grandchildren Nikolas Boyd of Aurora, Missouri, Isaac Boyd, Miles Parazine, and Lyla Pittman all of Joplin. Becky also leaves behind the many close friends she made while residing at National Healthcare. 

A celebration of Becky’s life will take place on at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 29th at 122 S. Main Street in Joplin. Parking can be found in the rear of the building and on the street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Joplin Humane Society or The Lafayette House. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary. Private internment of her ashes will be at a later date in Saginaw Cemetery.