Joyce LaVern Byers-Hines (nee) Anderson, passed away peacefully at St. Sophia Health and Rehabilitation Center on Friday morning, January 9, 2026, at the age of 82. She was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas on March 8, 1943.

She was predeceased by both of her parents, Alfred Anderson and Martha Ella Douglass; her brother and sisters, Alfred A. Anderson, Jr., Pamela J. Hider-Johnson, and Pearl A. Anderson Coleman; her granddaughter, Anastacia Joy Bennett-Hart; and her husband, the love of her life, David Edison Hines.

Lovingly remember by her children, Alisa Yvette Bennett-Hart (Nelson C. Hart) and Monique Maureen Hines of St. Louis, Missouri; grandchildren, Agave Rose Brown (Chris Brown) of Augusta, Georgia and Absalom Nevarre Bennett-Hart (Heather Bennett-Hart) of Oahu, Hawaii, Chloe Simone Hines of St. Louis, Missouri; great- grandchildren, Aurora and Anastasiya Brown of Augusta, Georgia and Juniper Bennett-Hart of Oahu, Hawaii; her brother and sister, Ricky E. Anderson and Sharron D. Anderson; her lifelong friend and Godmother to her children Hazel Johnson; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A graduate of Soldan High School, Joyce spent her career working for Sigma-Aldrich. She retired in 2005 after 35 years with the title “Chemist”. After retiring, Joyce indulged her first love by singing at church, concerts, and private events. In 2005, she recorded and released a CD of jazz favorites titled “I’m Coming Out.” Joyce spent as much time as she could singing EVERYWHERE! She also loved reading, traveling, and photography.

A Memorial Service to celebrate, honor, and remember Joyce is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11AM and will be hosted by Refresh Community Church located at 829 Hanley Rd., 63130. A repast will follow in the fellowship hall of the church. This will be a nontraditional service centering Joyce’s love of music – especially gospel and jazz. Please wear purple for our Queen Mother and/or yellow (her favorite color).