Joyce W. Powell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joyce Wayne (Cooksey) Powell, aged 83, on September 24, 2024 ending a long and arduous battle with Parkinson’s disease. She was born on August 16, 1941 to Raymond “Pete” and Eunice (Reesing) Cooksey. Embracing the simplicity of life and her dedicated service to others, her warm spirit, calm demeanor and infectious smile brightened the lives of everyone she touched.

A devoted Lutheran her entire life, Joyce lived out her faith gracefully through the many challenges that she experienced in her life. She was a beloved hairdresser, known for making every client feel special and cherished. Her heart was especially full when surrounded by babies and pets, whose innocence she adored.

Joyce faced life with an indomitable human spirit, never losing her love for the beauty in small things or her ability to lift the spirits of those around her. Even though she experienced constant agonizing pain due to Parkinson’s disease in her later life, she never complained, and assured others that she was doing just fine. She will be remembered for her fun-loving nature, her devotion to her family and faith, and her unshakeable love of life.

Joyce was preceded in death by her son, Kevin Bartels; her parents, Raymond and Eunice Cooksey; and her brother, John Cooksey. She is survived by her loving husband, Dean Powell; daughter, Kimberly Bartels; son, Kyle Bartels; daughter-in-law, Misty Bartels; grandson, Seth Bartels; sister, Pam Owens and husband, Tim; brother, Jim Cooksey and wife, Pat; 6 nieces and nephews; 12 great nieces and nephews; stepson, Ricky Powell and wife, Kathy; stepson Kevin; and 5 step grandchildren. She will be deeply missed but forever celebrated in our hearts.

A service celebrating her life will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Bellmead, Texas beginning at 12:00 pm on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Internment will immediately follow the service at Waco Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Waco Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday, September 27, 2024 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Waco Memorial Funeral Home.

The family has requested that memorials be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Joyce’s honor.