Obit: Ator, Melba "Joyce" (1934 – 2017)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Ator, Hall, Wilson, Harris, McFarlane, Childres, Strasser, Diedrich, Eckes, Jolivette, Dickey

Source: Tribune/Record/Gleaner (Abbotsford, WI) 30 Aug 2017

Ator, Melba "Joyce" (10 NOV 1934 – 22 AUG 2017)

Melba “Joyce” “Grannie” Ator, 82, Neillsville, grew her wings on Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017, at her home, with her family by her side. Private services will be held at a later date.

Melba Wilson was born on Nov. 10, 1934, in Beirne, Ark., to Clyde and Lillie “Mae” (nee Hall) Wilson. Soon after high school, she moved to Texas and began her adventures. Throughout the years she moved to Wisconsin and back down to Texas. She finished her foundation in the early 2000s when she made Wisconsin her final home to be with her family. Joyce cherished spending time with her loved ones and friends reminiscing of old times and making memories. She also enjoyed watching Western shows, birds, word searches, reading, and making sure everyone knew she was a southern belle. She enjoyed truck driving and worked most of her life for Justin Boots. Joyce lived her life to the fullest and cherished her last days of life in the loving care of her daughter-in-law Megan Harris and granddaughter Andrea McFarlane, along with their children: Michael, Ryleigh, Chelsea, Braedyn and McKynlie.

She is survived by seven children: Virginia (David) Childres of Gurdon, Ark., Charles (Charlene Strasser) Diedrich of Wisconsin Rapids, Cindy McFarlane of Greenwood, Beckie Diedrich of Waynesville, Mo., Annie Eckes of Marshfield, James (Becky) Jolivette of Greenwood, and Russell (Megan) Harris of Neillsville; 18 grandchildren: Paul, Bobbie, Mickey, Buck, Jen, Rick, Andrea, Sylvia, Kaila, Karly, Allie, Dylan, Alison, Courtney, Michael, Ryleigh, and Chelsea; many greatgrandchildren; nieces; nephews; friends; cousins; and her beloved sister-in-law MaryJane Wilson and brother-in-law Clois Dickey of Beirne, Ark.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; three younger siblings; and a granddaughter, Stephanie.

The family would like to thank everyone for all of their kind words and loving support along with the help from Ministry Home Hospice.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona, is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.