Joyce Katherine Smith

Joyce Katherine Smith, 92 of Emporia, Kansas died Sunday, April 4, 2021 at Holiday Resort Care Center in Emporia.

Joyce was born May 18, 1928 in Emporia the daughter of John and Hattie (Zieammerman) Montgomery. She worked 40 years in management at the Hallmark Cards Manufacturing Plant in Topeka, retiring in 1986. Joyce was a member of the Westside Baptist Church in Emporia, AARP, Emporia Friends of the Zoo, a volunteer drive for the American Cancer Society, and a member of the Ball-McColm Post #5, American Legion Auxillary.

On November 20, 1976 Joyce married Clifford E. Smith in Emporia. He died December 10, 1986 in Emporia. She is survived by: step-son Randy C. Smith of Emporia, step-daughter Barbie Gurwell and husband David of Emporia, son-in-law Jeff Cochran of Emporia, grandchildren Darby Cochran-Wilson and husband Chris of Emporia, Joel Smith of Emporia and girlfriend Kaila, Fletcher Smith of Emporia, Shelby Brown and husband Dennis of Topeka, KS, Kim Dillon and husband Steve of Topeka, Courtney Patton and husband Richard of Oregon, 9 great-grandchildren, ex son-in-law Tom Ayers and many "chosen family" including Carol VandeVelde, Alan Mize, Norma Weltha, Tanya Sparks as well as family in Canada and Arkansas as well. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, step-daughter Donna Cochran and twin sister June E. Montgomery.  She was an avid animal lover, rodeo and spent many years in the Saddle & Harness club with June. She loved her family and friends fiercely and was loved so much in return.

Cremation is planned. A private inurnment will be held for the family.

Memorial contributions may be made the Emporia Friends of the Zoo and sent in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home.