Joyce E. King
Joyce E. King, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2024, in her home in Bourbon, Missouri. Born on June 1, 1937, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Troy and Beulah (Christensen) Manues, Joyce spent her 86 years building a legacy of love, resilience, and joy.
As one of eight siblings, Joyce's early life was filled with the hustle and bustle of a large family. It was amidst this loving chaos that she learned the values of family and hard work. In 1959, Joyce shared her vows with Wesley Edward King, and together they embarked on a journey full of laughter and devotion. Their union flourished, and they were blessed with five children: Charles, Veronica, Timothy, Stephan, and James. After the loss of her beloved Wesley in 1985, Joyce displayed her unyielding strength, raising her children with unwavering dedication.
Joyce's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when she and Wesley managed their own businesses, including two restaurants and a taxi service. Later, she became the proud owner of L & B Bookstore, a local staple on Clark Street, where she remained until her well-deserved retirement in 2017. Known for her hearty laugh and vibrant personality, she endeared everyone who crossed her path.
In her golden years, Joyce found a calling as a minister, touching the hearts of many as she officiated over 100 weddings. Her spirit and charm left a lasting impression on all those she met. A lover of nature, Joyce's passion for flower gardening allowed her to create beauty in the world, a testament to her nurturing soul.
Above all, Joyce was a beacon of love to her extensive family. She rejoiced in the accomplishments of her children, the warmth of her grandchildren, and the promise of her great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
Joyce is survived by four children, Charles “Rick” King and wife Theresa of Sullivan, MO, Veronica Heise and husband Lawrence of Bourbon, MO, Stephan King and wife Chiko of Sullivan, MO, James King and wife Lisa of Cuba, MO; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; a host of great-great-grandchildren; one sister Victoria Stringer and husband Louis of Sullivan, MO; nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends.
Along with her parents and husband, Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved son Timothy King; two brothers, Wesley and Michael Manues; and three sisters, Jeanette Dahl, Patricia Parker and Lois Reeves.
A memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM, Saturday, May 18, 2024 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, MO.
The King family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Saturday, May 18, 2024 at the Eaton Funeral Home.
Friends may send online condolences to the King family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the care for the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.