Obituary of Joyce Ann Leivan

Joyce Ann Leivan passed away on Saturday August 12, 2023. She was born on November 5, 1938, in Ainsworth, NE to Leslie (Child) and William Moritz. She graduated from Lamar High School in 1956. In her life, she was employed in several fields including working at AT&T and as a seamstress for Big Smith. She was the owner and operator of Jasper Tavern from 1971 to 1996 and then worked as an associate at the Carthage Walmart for 19 years. She enjoyed working in her yard, growing flowers, and mowing. She was resourceful and creative. She was an excellent seamstress and carpenter who remodeled her home and even made her own kitchen cabinets. Many family members have items she made for them. Joyce enjoyed and was exceptionally good at researching genealogy, not only for herself but for her family’s family as well. She was a supporter of the Jasper community, especially the local businesses, and could often be found enjoying a cup of coffee with friends at Judy’s Café. She is survived by her children Kenton (Lisa) Starmer of Webb City, MO, Shawn (Shelley) Starmer of Lamar, MO, Barry (Amy) Leivan of Green Forest, AR, and Laura (Kerry) Law of Poquoson, VA; and sister Myrna Mardis of Lees Summit, MO. She is also survived by her grandchildren Julie, Kristen, Seth, Jordan, Baylee, Ethan, Nolan, Zara, Shaeden, Savanna, Drew, and Casey; great grandchildren Taylor, Braden, Brynna, Hudson, Breckyn, Indie, Gatlin, Elsie and Maelin; and great-great grandson Colton. Joyce is preceded in death by her parents, brother Dale Moritz, and son-in-law Phillip Svitak. If you would like to make a memorial contribution in lieu of flowers, the family suggests Special Operations Warrior Foundation in care of the funeral home. The family will receive visitors from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM with a funeral service following on Friday August 18, 2023, at Konantz Warden Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Memory Gardens.