Joyce Hays

(From Parker Mortuary)

Joyce Elizabeth Hays, age 75, Joplin, passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Freeman West in Joplin.

Joyce was born January 21, 1949 in Joplin, daughter of the late Earl Lee Clark and Elizabeth Jane (White) Clark. She grew up in Joplin and graduated from Joplin High School. She worked for many years as a bus driver for Joplin R VIII School District. She was a loving mother and grandmother and loved spending time with her family. She also enjoyed sewing for the family.

Joyce was proud to be a Native American and a Tribal Member of the Cherokee Nation, Oklahoma. She was active with Tribal activities and enjoyed Pow-wow celebrations. She had a variety of life’s joys; but, her family was her greatest passion. She will be missed by many who loved her.

She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Bruce Hays; two sons Dr. Robert Sanders and wife Michele of Normandy, TN, and Ervin Sanders and wife Deana of Kansas City, MO, daughter, Tanya Musgrave of Joplin, stepdaughter, Tamarra Shabazz of Hillsdale, CA; brothers, David Clark of Quapaw, OK, and Earl Lee Clark and wife Joyce of Neosho, MO; sister, Ruth Ann Lee and husband Bill of Joplin; 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

There will be visitation for family/friends at Parker Mortuary on Tuesday from 12:00 noon until 1:30 p.m. prior to departure to the graveside services.

Graveside service will be Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with family serving as pallbearers and Pastor John Boyd directing.