Joycelin Maye

Joycelin Jean Maye, lovingly known as Joyce and Nannie, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Superior Health and Rehab in Conway, Arkansas at the age of 83. Born on May 27, 1941, in Lakeview, Oregon, Joyce was the daughter of Dock and Lura Ozella Greene Brown.

She often reminded others, “Don’t complain about the weather because God knows what He is doing,” a reflection of her deep trust in God’s plan. A member of the Main and Oklahoma Church of Christ in McAlester, OK for the past 7 years. Joyce was the definition of strength and confidence—unshakable in her values and fiercely loyal to those she loved. A loyal friend and a protective matriarch, she didn’t have time for nonsense, and she made no apologies for it. She was real—realer than real—and you always knew exactly where you stood with her. Her love was unconditional, her presence unforgettable, a testament to her fiery spirit and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Family was everything to Joyce. She beamed with pride over her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and treasured every moment spent with them. To those closest to her, she was affectionately known as “Monkey”—a sweet nickname from her dad that stuck with her through the years.

Joyce had a heart for animals, especially her precious dogs, Buff and Mosey, and she supported animal causes like the ASPCA. Her love of music—especially George Jones, Garth Brooks, and Blake Shelton—and her enjoyment of old bluegrass festivals showed her zest for life. She was also happiest with a fishing pole in hand (especially when the crappie were biting) or relaxing at deer camp. A creative soul, Joyce had a knack for crochet and knitting, and even made her own ceramics in a kiln at home. Joyce’s humor and generous heart will be cherished by all who knew her.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, and her brothers—Clinton, Dub, and Kenneth Brown. She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Curtis and Debra Lecrone, and Butch and Joanie Lecrone; her sister, Jackie Brown; her cousin Fern, affectionally known as Sissy; her beloved grandchildren—Chelsi and husband Tim Krause, Brooke and husband Chandler Henderson, Stephen Lecrone, Ben and wife Ashton Lecrone; and her cherished great-grandchildren—Norah and Sully Krause, Prairie, Granger, Aspen, and Mesa Henderson, Bentley and Gentry Lecrone, and Brooklyn Hood. She also leaves behind many other family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel with BJ McMichael officiating. Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Tuesday, April 8, from 4:30 to 6:30 P.M. at Bowser Family Funeral Home in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. She will be laid to rest at Broken Bow Cemetery.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com

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