Mildred Joyce Stephens, age 90, of Glencoe, passed away on May 7, 2026. A funeral service will be held at Crestwood Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Private family reflection at 12:30 p.m. with brother Ferguson until the time of service. Pastor Tommy Ferguson will officiate. Burial will follow at Crestwood Cemetery.

Ms. Stephens was truly a shining light in this world. She had a loving and devoted heart for her family, especially her granddaughters and great-grandson. She dearly loved her children and animals and had a special affection for her beloved cats. A strong and faithful woman, Joyce was baptized into the Christian faith in a creek as a teenager and remained steadfast in her beliefs throughout her life. She was a member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Alabama.

Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she treasured all the joy and togetherness it brought. Joyce was also known for her sassy spirit and determined strength, qualities that made her unforgettable to those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, R.L. Taylor and Bertha Taylor; and her daughter, Cathy Ford.

She is survived by her daughters, Stephanie Croy, Debra Gray, and Kim McGowan (Dennis); her son, Richard Stephens; her granddaughters, Rachel Stephens (Jason Vargas) and Megan Morgan (Elliot); and her grand-grandson, Quentin Morgan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and donations may be made to the Humane Society of Etowah County.

Pallbearers will be Richard Stephens, Dennis McGowan, Elliot Morgan, David Willis, Jason Vargas, and Nate Whisenant.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Coosa Valley and Gadsden Regional for the compassionate care and kindness shown to Joyce during her final days.