Wanda "Joy" Joyce Watson, age 77, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at St. Vincent’s Riverside after an extended illness. She was born on February 4, 1948, in Starke, Florida, to Myrtice (Harris) and William Franklin Bell and was raised in Maxville. Joy was a kind and attentive mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister who enjoyed spending time with her family.
Joy was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Wayne and Tommy; sisters, Janice and Frances; and son, Mark Manning. Survivors include her son, Richard Manning of Maxville; daughter, Wanda Hope Watson of Maxville; sisters, Sylvia Manning of Middleburg and Cathy Bell of Maxville; the love of her life and longtime companion, Barry Merkley of Jacksonville; along with 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Bell Cemetery in Middleburg.
Arrangements entrusted to the dedicated care of BLACKBURN-CURRY FUNERAL AND CREMATION, 380 N. Lowder Street, Macclenny, Florida 32063. (904) 259-2806.