Joyce Bowden Beard, 82 of Hope, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 4, 2024.  Joyce was born January 29, 1941, in Hope to the late Hazel and Lois (Durham) Bowden. Joyce was a long-time member of Southside Baptist church in Hope. She is preceded in death by husband Harold Beard, brother Allison Bowden, and stepdaughter Debra (Beard) Chandler.

She is survived by children: David Beard and wife Lisa of Willisville, Chris Beard and wife Kirstie of Hope, Dr. Mike Beard and wife Glenda of Conway, Gerald Beard and wife Angie of Royal, and Mark Beard and wife Dena of Texarkana, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff of Heather Manor Rehabilitation for their care over the last several years.

Graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Missionary Grove Cemetery in the Nubbin Hill Community of Prescott, with Bro. Charles Jones officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Missionary Grove Cemetery Funds, c/o Marcia Jo Ridling, 643 Nevada 66E, Prescott, Arkansas 71857.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Brazzel Oakcrest the Funeral Home of Hope. 1001 S Main St. Hope, Arkansas 71801. Online condolences can be made at www.brazzelfuneralhomes.com