Joyce Sue Dennis

Joyce Sue “Tarbutton” Dennis was born August 7, 1945, in Little Rock, Arkansas, and passed away Sunday, July 17, 2022, at her home in Mansfield, Missouri, after a long illness.

She was united in marriage to Larry Dennis on May 26, 1961, and to this union two children were born.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Rose Tarbutton, and a sister, Mary Lou Baird.

Joyce is survived by her husband of 61 years, Larry; son, Donnie Dennis of Mansfield; daughter, Becky Cooper and husband, Eric, of Mountain Grove; three grandchildren, Carson Cooper of Mtn. Grove, Alexis Davis and husband, Ethan, of Monett, Missouri, and Bailey Harrington and husband, Jeremiah, of Mtn. Grove; five great-grandchildren, Lucas, Reuben, Haven, and Saylor Harrington of Mtn. Grove and Jack Davis of Monett; and an extended family of nieces, nephews, and many friends.

She was born in Arkansas and raised in Mansfield and was a graduate of Mansfield High School in the Class of 1963. She was employed as a teacher’s aide at Mansfield Elementary School for several years. Joyce retired in 2003 after 22 years as assistant deputy clerk with the Wright County Clerk in Hartville.

Joyce was a big Elvis fan, enjoyed quilting and was a member of the Pieceful Quilting Club of Mansfield.
Joyce was a lifelong member of the Mansfield Methodist Church where she was a member of the “Church Ladies” organization and sang in the church choir until her health failed.

“MeMe”, as she was affectionately called by her family, was known for her culinary skills, and looked forward to preparing a large Sunday dinner for her family as long as she was physically able.

Joyce was a loving wife, mother, “MeMe”, sister, aunt and a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate her life and have many special memories that we will always cherish.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mansfield Methodist Church, Wright County Children’s Home, or Mansfield Historical Society.