Melba Joyce Reed, age 82, of Cassville, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 11, 2022.  Daughter of Alfred and Leonora (Bruton) Owens, Joyce was born on December 29, 1939, in Henrietta, Texas.  On November 17, 1961, she was united in marriage to John W. Reed in Arlington, Texas. The couple enjoyed 49 blissful years together before John's eventual passing in 2010.

Joyce enjoyed camping, fishing and was an excellent cook. As a matriarch, no one could ever compare to Joyce. She was utterly and completely devoted to her family, caring for them was her fulfillment and greatest joy in life. Joyce was the mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother that every child dreams of having, always present, and ready with special treats and a hug. All who knew Joyce were made better by knowing her. Joyce was a beloved soul and will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her three sons, Larry Anderson and Gary Anderson, both of Cassville, and Ken Donald and his wife Debra, of Anton, Colorado; seven grandchildren, Mary Birchfield, of Cassville, John Anderson, of Cassville, Michael Anderson and his wife Keisha, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Daniel Anderson and his wife Stephanie, of Cassville, Phillip Anderson and his wife Casey, of Cassville, Chris Reed and his wife Adrian, of Purdy, and Michelle Reed, of Dayton, Ohio; thirteen great-grandchildren, Brianna Birchfield, Darren Birchfield, Kyrian Anderson, Rylie Anderson, Saphyra Anderson, Addie Anderson, Evan Anderson, Marshall Walker, Zach Walker, Danielle Reed, Collin Stanford, Caleb Stanford, and Logan Reed

In addition to her parents and husband, Joyce was preceded in death by one son, Daniel Scott Anderson; one brother, Charles Owens; and two sisters, Katie Owens and Reba O'Neal.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of the White Funeral Home and Crematory, Cassville, Missouri.