Joyce Marie McDaniel Stidham Gabbard was born May 29, 1939 in Jackson, Kentucky. Departed this life at her residence on March 17, 2026. Being 86 years 9 months and 19 days old. Joyce was preceded by her parents: Rev. Ader McDaniel and Jane Strong McDaniel; one brother, James Beulah; three sisters, Edna Loise Eversole (James), Wanda Faye Pennington (Alex R.), Beela Sue Noble (Rev. Bill Noble); first husband, Ben Stidham; second husband, Edward Gabbard.

Retired schoolteacher from the Perry County school system retired in 1988-89 from Chavies elementary after 29 years of service.

Joyce was a graduate of Breathitt County high school and furthered her education at Lee's College, followed by Eastern Kentucky University where she received her master's degree in early education with a minor in music.

Joyce was an experienced piano player where she played for many weddings, horse shows, church services and school plays. Joyce fostered a love of music for many children and was also known to teach piano as well as sign language to her students.

Joyce was a member of the Krypton Eastern star #578 where she served others with her talent as a pianist and wisdom from life experiences.

Joyce was an active member of the Chavies's first Church of God, where she played the piano and sang in the choir.

Joyce had a very large heart for all animals, especially those who were orphaned.

Joyce was an avid quilter, crafter, and loved to crochet. Her love of crafts will live on in every stitch she ever placed, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family and her students teaching singing and playing video games with her great-grandson.

Joyce had the greatest sense of humor, the best advice, and a matter of fact, attitude that we all loved greatly. Through her love and actions, she showed her family and friends how strong they really could be and has saved many of us through her steadfast faith, and prayer.

Joyce is survived by one daughter, Jamie Lewis (Clifford); two granddaughters, Adrian Pratt (Eric), Amanda Lewis; four great grandchildren, Hannah Pratt (Axel Smallwood), Haylee Hoskins (Dillon), Addyson Pratt, Eric E.J. Pratt Jr., and angel baby Hoskins; four extended family members, Pastor Brian Bridges (Kristy), Michael Hoskins (Brandi); and a host of family and friends survive. All reside in Perry County, Kentucky.

Funeral Services for Joyce Gabbard will be conducted on Saturday – March 21, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at the Engle-Bowling Funeral Home with Pastor Brian Bridges officiating.  The Interment will follow in the Netty Strong Cemetery in Sulphur Gap, Kentucky.  The Visitation will be at the Engle-Bowling Funeral Home on Friday- March 20, 2026 from 6:00 – 9:00 P.M.