Joyce Hankinson Mathis

Joyce Hankinson Mathis, 87 of Crestview, Fla. passed away Sunday, September 20, 2020, peacefully in her home after a long battle with Alzheimer's.

 Joyce was born February 2, 1933 in Aiken County, South Carolina. She married her high school sweetheart, Ted H. Mathis, and the two enjoyed the life they built traveling to various military installations around the United States before settling in Crestview, FL. Her passions included treasure hunting at “junk stores”, raising African Violets, and crafting with a focus on sewing, quilting, and ceramics. On Fridays and Saturdays, she could be found at Sew and Save Fabrics where she enjoyed the company and conversation of all her customers for 25 years. She was an active member of the Crestview Homemakers, as well as First United Methodist Church of Crestview. 

Joyce is survived by her children, Gaye (Dennis) Helms, Joy Mathis, Greg (Evelyn) Mathis, Karen Mathis, and Steve (Deanna) Mathis. She was "Ema" to 9 grandchildren: Chris, Kyle, Keith, Kasey, Kelly, Lindsey, Matthew, Landis, and Erin as well as 18 great grandchildren.  She is also survived by her two sisters, Gail Player and Kay Kitchings. 

She is preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Ted H. Mathis; parents, Oliver R. Hankinson and Myrtle (Toole); her stepmother Nellie Hankinson, and a brother, Otis Hankinson. 

There will be a celebration of life at Whitehurst Powell funeral home on Saturday, September 26 at 2:00. Visitation will be at 1:00.  Masks are encouraged, but optional. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview.  Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

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