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Joycelyn “Joy” Lorraine Symmes, 91, entered into eternal repose on March 11, 2021, in Lakeland, Florida. She was born on July 17, 1929, in Spirit Lake, Iowa, to Charles and Marie Wagner.
The Wagner family lived in Warrensburg, Missouri, Springfield, Illinois, and Litchfield, Illinois, during Joy’s youth. Joy completed her education at Litchfield High School. She later married and started her family. Joy was a stay-at-home Mom for many years in Litchfield and Lakeland. She was co-owner of the Crest Restaurant and B&M Discount in Lakeland. Joy also worked as a legal secretary before retiring.
Joy’s life revolved around her family and her church. She was a charter member and elder emeritus of Bethany Christian Church in Lakeland. Joy was an avid reader and crossword puzzle enthusiast. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, and crafts. Joy was a staunch UF Gator and Tampa Bay Rays fan. Above all, she relished the innumerable family gatherings over the years.
Joy leaves wonderful memories to be cherished by her sister, Barbara Wagner, of Lakeland, and her children, Michael (Theresa) Symmes, Bradley (Angela) Symmes, Kevin Symmes, Tracy (Mark) Stephenson, Jody Symmes, former daughter-in-law, MaryAnn Symmes, all of Lakeland, and David (Marianne) Symmes of Jacksonville, Florida. Joy is also survived by fifteen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren. Joy’s family is grateful for the compassionate in-home care from the staff at Good Shepherd Hospice.
Services for Joy will be held at Bethany Christian Church at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the family at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Homes.
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