Joyce Ann Rutherford Dockery, 79 of Houston, Alabama, formerly of Maryville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home on July 6, 2023.
Born March 12, 1944, in Maryville to the late Horace Leonard and Edith Norton Rutherford. She is also preceded in death by her older brother, James Rutherford; and brothers-in-law, Fred Dockery, Hershel Dockery, and Richard Dockery.
Joyce will be dearly missed by her loving husband of sixty-four years, Lewis N. Dockery, of Houston, Alabama; daughter and son-in-law, Selena Dockery and Harold R. “Bubba” Wells, Jr.’ grandchildren, Emma Wells Strait (Will) and Harold R. Wells, III (Haley Gray), all of Birmingham, Alabama; sisters-in-law, Emma Dean Rutherford, Francis Hatley (Donnie), Addie Raper (Donnie), and Jean Mercer; brothers-in-law, Tom Dockery (Rena) and Wayne Dockery (Jackie); many nieces and nephews; as well as, numerous extended family members and friends who are like family.
Living all but the last ten years of her life in Maryville, she attended Everette High School, was a member of Lone Oak Baptist Church, attended First Baptist Church of Maryville, and enjoyed managing Naturalizer Shoe Store, then Classic Décor and Gifts in Foothills Mall. She loved the mountains and spending time fishing, camping, and exploring. She and Lewis always had a beautiful big garden and she prided herself in her ability to can and preserve their harvest. She was a fabulous cook. Her pies were the hit of every gathering.
Joyce’s greatest pleasure was in being a wife, mother, and later grandmother, being an extraordinary caregiver came naturally to her and many were blessed by her nurturing spirit throughout her lifetime. She beautifully filled the role of caregiver and nurse to both her parents, as well as, many other relatives and friends. She was treasured for making those around her feel welcome and loved, later becoming “Granny” to all who knew her.
In 2013 she and Lewis moved to Houston, Alabama to live on Smith Lake and be closer to their adoring daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren.
Joyce successfully battled cancer twice, in 2015 and again in 2017. A massive stroke took her ability to use her left side and her independent mobility in 2018. Her faith and positive attitude during these hardships, even during hospice, never waivered and has been a blessing to those around her. Lewis’ devotion and tender caregiving have made her final years sweet and tranquil.
Services celebrating the life of Joyce Dockery will be held at Smith Funeral and Cremation Services, 1402 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville, Tennessee, receiving friends, Monday, July 17th from 5pm to 7pm with services immediately following. Graveside Service will be held Tuesday, July 18th at 11am at Grandview Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the charity of your choice.
She will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
