Timmonsville Remembers a Beloved Matriarch: Joyce Richardson Hewitt
In the cozy town of Timmonsville, residents are coming together to commemorate the life of a remarkable woman, Joyce Richardson Hewitt, who passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024, at the impressive age of 95. Joyce’s passing has left a significant void in the hearts of many, and her celebration of life is scheduled for Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Luke Lutheran Church on Cherokee Road in Florence. Friends and family can begin to gather at the church an hour earlier to share their memories and support one another during this time of mourning.
A Life Full of Love and Service
Born in Southampton, England, Joyce was raised in the vibrant community of Totton as the eldest of seven siblings. With a lifelong passion for caring for others, she earned her nursing degree from Southampton Royal Hospital. Her life took a beautiful turn when she met Roland Hewitt, a dashing young man stationed in England with the United States Air Force during the Korean War. The two tied the knot on February 2 and soon embarked on a journey that led them to a family farm in Timmonsville.
Joyce and Roland welcomed three more children into their lives, building a loving family that became a pillar of the local community. Their commitment to family and faith was evident in their involvement with the church and various community activities. Joyce was a cherished member of St. Luke Lutheran Church, where she actively participated in the Freida Klaus Circle.
A Garden of Memories
One of Joyce’s greatest passions was gardening. She found joy in nurturing the earth, tending to flowers, and watching hummingbirds flit about her garden. Her love for nature extended beyond gardening; she was also a dedicated member of both the Carolina Garden Club and the Book and Garden Club of Timmonsville. Joyce’s love for reading and history inspired many around her, making her a joy to be around for both family and friends.
A Loving Matriarch
As a devoted wife, loving mother, and doting grandmother, Joyce’s family was the heart of her world. She is survived by her four wonderful children: Tommy (Lois) Hewitt, Claire (Ivan) Hobbs, Beth (Kirk) Edmonds, and Harry (Tammy) Hewitt, alongside her ten cherished grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Each of them carries a piece of her warmth and wisdom with them, a testament to her nurturing spirit.
A Spiritual Legacy
Joyce’s love for her family extended to her faith. She instilled in her children the importance of having a relationship with the Lord. Her household often echoed with the sounds of her melodic tunes and laughter as she danced around the kitchen. It’s said that she had a magical way of making a simple cup of hot tea a remedy for life’s troubles.
Honoring Joyce’s Life
Though Joyce is predeceased by her husband, Roland Troxel Hewitt Jr., along with her parents and several siblings, her spirit continues to thrive in the hearts of her family. Surviving her is also her brother, Mark (Teresa) Richardson, who lives in England, and her special brother-in-law, Jerry (Vicki) Hewitt.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Joyce’s memory can make memorial contributions to St. Luke Lutheran Church or the McLeod Foundation for the McLeod Hospice House. The legacy of Joyce Richardson Hewitt reminds us all of the power of love, faith, and community.
