Joyce Juanita Owens, 82, of Arcadia, Fla., passed away Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, at DeSoto Memorial Hospital.

She was the fourth child of Robert and Lula Owens. Joyce graduated from Smith Brown High School in Arcadia in 1948. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee, Fla. Joyce returned to Arcadia, where she taught in the DeSoto County, Fla., public schools as an elementary teacher for 40 years. During her career, she received numerous awards and accolades, notably DeSoto County Teacher of the Year. She joined Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church in September 1938. Since that time, she remained active in the church, singing in the choir and serving as a Trustee. Joyce had a heart to honor God and help others bring out their potential.

She is survived by her loving aunt, Theodosia Atkins; brother, Dr. Robert L. Owens III; and a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and devoted friends.

Visitation is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. today, Friday, Jan. 18, 2013, at Hickson Funeral Home in Arcadia. The Funeral Service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013, at Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church, 100 S. Orange Ave., Arcadia. Burial will take place at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Arcadia.

Arrangements are by Hickson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Arcadia.