Joyce Ann Lopez

Joyce Ann Lopez, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, October 19, 2022.  She had just celebrated her 85^th birthday.

Joyce was born to Buck Lee Sauls and Nella L. Sauls in Panama City, Florida where she grew up with her five siblings, Randall Sauls (deceased), Nella Mae Braswell (deceased), Tommy Sauls, Dora Dunnigan and Bonnie Aloia.

Joyce was a fierce woman.  With four children to support, Joyce became a skilled welder – a trade that wasn’t typical or traditional for a woman of her time – and assisted in the building of military ships that protect our nation.  Joyce’s work ethic never faded as she aged, continuing with her household duties and supporting her husband in caring for their little farm in Saucier, MS.  Joyce had a green thumb like no other and took pride in sharing her bounty with friends and family.  She also found happiness with her church community and looked forward to attending services on Sundays.

Joyce, a wife, mother, grandmother will be missed endlessly.  Joyce is survived by her husband, Alfredo H. Lopez; her four children, Tony Gay, Donna Joyce Marty, Regina Ann Leger, and Ronnie Gay; and her six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

The service will be Thursday, October 27, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. where friends may visit one hour before service time at Poplar Head United Methodist Church, 13196 Poplar Head Road, Saucier, MS 39574.  Interment will be in Poplar Head Cemetery.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport is honored to serve the Lopez family.