March 22, 2021
Joyce Hibdon Mullinax passed away during her sleep on March 19, 2021 at home. Joyce was born in DeKalb County on October 14, 1936 to Jimmie and Hazel Cantrell Hibdon.
Joyce was a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University and served as the home demonstration agent in Rutherford County for several years. She then taught in the DeKalb County School system for many years before serving as the DeKalb County System Food Service Director. After retiring from the school system, she developed and operated Richland Retirement Home in Smithville.
She was a remarkable woman who touched numerous lives as a teacher, friend, neighbor, caregiver, and mother to many. It was her wish to stay at home even as her health was declining. She was cared for by many generous and caring people, for which she was thankful to you all, especially Stephanie Tiner, and Sissy Pyles.
Joyce is survived by her son, Greg Mullinax, of Tokyo, Japan. She was predeceased by her parents and her brothers Jerry Hibdon and Freddy Hibdon. She is survived by her brother, John Hibdon (Vickie) and her sister, Nina Moss (James) and sisters-in-law Wendy Hibdon and Susan Hibdon. Joyce was an aunt to thirteen nieces and nephews and numerous great nieces and nephews. Joyce was also “Granny Joyce” to her special family Barbara and Doug Ervin, their children, Hayden (Katie) Ervin and Lindsy Shae (Ryan) Winfree and children Charlee and Rylee Winfree.
Joyce was a special and giving friend to many and always enjoyed running into her former students, even when, sometimes, she didn’t recognize them right away! Joyce was an excellent Southern style cook who enjoyed preparing meals for family and friends, always happy to share a recipe or cooking tip. She also never shied away from issues with managing rental properties for which Terry Hicks was a dependable helper and problem solver for many years.
There will be a celebration of life at a later date. Donations in Joyce’s memory may be made to either the Justin Potter Library, 101 S. 1st Street, Smithville, TN 37166, or the Banks Cumberland Presbyterian Church (mail to Violet Carr, 2807 Blue Springs Road, Smithville, TN 37166), for which she has been a member of for most of her life.
Love-Cantrell Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.