Joyce Ann Cranford Mayes, age 66, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.
Joyce was born on March 24, 1959, in Camden, Arkansas, to the late Preston Cranford and Margaret Culver. She spent her life giving generously of herself, always ready to lend a hand or a kind word to anyone in need. She had a heart of gold and would truly give you the shirt off her back.
She worked for 14 years at Walmart Corporate, where she was known not only for her strong work ethic but also for her kind spirit and easy smile.
Joyce loved to fish, knit, travel, and color. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life and never let a moment go by without letting her loved ones know how deeply she cared. Her family was her greatest joy, and nothing brought her more happiness than her grandchildren. She made sure to say “I love you, baby” every time she spoke to them—a phrase that will echo in their hearts forever.
She is survived by her son, Micah Chambers and wife Jenna of Ponca City, OK; daughter, Kira Frederick and wife Kayla of Fayetteville, AR; and her beloved grandchildren: Colton Hungate, Katie Hungate, Jessman Chambers, and Cash Chambers; sister Jackie Lewis; niece Trista McIntire; and nephew Chris Rodrigues.
Joyce loved Jesus with all her heart. Raised on gospel music by her daddy, it was only fitting that her children sang those same cherished songs to her as she passed.
Following her wishes, there will be no formal funeral or memorial service. Her family invites all who knew and loved her to honor her memory in their own personal way—by casting a fishing line, picking up a ball of yarn, traveling somewhere new, or simply telling someone, “I love you, baby.” In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Willard Walker Hospice Home in Fayetteville, AR.
Her love was a gift. Her memory, a treasure.
Thoughts and many prayers today and in the days to come. Love and hugs to all.
I went to high school with Joyce. I remember so many fun times. She was such a wonderful and sweet person. She will be so missed by her wonderful family and all her friends. Rest in peace dear friend.
Praying for for her family. She was was with me foe 3 years in Harmony Grove PTSO. A very hard working partner.
Praying for you all. Joyce ,will be fish up in heaven with Jimmy, Dennis, Mike and all of her Uncles.
Joyce was a joy to know . We were friend most of lives as kids . We went to school at the grove , she was a little older . Joyce was one of a kind sweet willing to help in anyway . Prayers for all her family . I know she will be missed .
Joy was my best friend for 65 yrs. We grew up together and never had a cross word. She was an angel walking amongst us. Now she is my guardian angel. I pray her family can find peace and comfort in all the great memories and love she bestowed on them. You will be truly missed forever until I see you again.
Joyce was my downstairs neighbor in Fayetteville for a short time. She offered help and rides to me a few times but I always turned away due to health issues that I face. I just want her family to know she had a great heart and really cared about people.