Joyce Mardell (Gurley) Wright

Joyce Mardell Wright, 79, of Herrin and formerly of Carterville, passed away Wednesday, September 19, 2018, at Herrin Hospital.

Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, September 24, 2018, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Pastor Eugene Sloan officiating. Inurnment will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Carterville. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., Monday, at the funeral home.

Joyce was born on May 31, 1939, in Herrin, to Chester A. and Hester (Walker) Gurley Sr.

She is survived by her sons, Mike (Angela) Reinhardt of Johnston City, Marvin James (Theresa) Wright of St. Louis, and Mark Ross; grandchildren, Madeline Reinhardt, Jillian Reinhardt, Noah Wright, Logan Wright, Amanda Ross, and Jessica Ross; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends, including the Galbraith Family.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Melody Lynn Ross; brother, Chester "Junior" Gurley; and grandson, Shawn Ross.

She had a servant's heart and served as a caretaker for folks in need over the years.

Joyce was a devout Christian and where the Spirit lead her, she followed.

She had a great love of music and was an accomplished songwriter. Joyce was a member of the Nashville Songwriters' Association.  

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