Mrs. Joyce Marie Newham Batten, age 70, of Uvalda, GA passed away Sunday morning, March 5, 2107 at Meadows Regional Medical Center in Vidalia, GA following an extended illness. Mrs. Batten was born February 8, 1947 to the late William Newham and the late Ella Mae Taylor Newham. Other than her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David Ray Batten, a Son, Stacy Dewayne Batten, and a Brother, Donnie Nelson.
Mrs. Batten, a native of Alma, Bacon County, was a homemaker.
Survivors include: 4 Children: Susan Johnson, Tracy Sinclair and Michael Batten all of Douglas, GA and Judy Steptoe of Nicholls, GA; 3 Brothers: Bill Newham of Fitzgerald, GA, Wallace Newham and Allen Nelson both of Douglas, GA; 2 Sisters: Wanda Hodge and Joann Gillespie both of Douglas, GA; 17 Grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren; and several Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and a host of Friends.
The funeral service was held Tuesday afternoon, March 7, 2017 at 2:00 P.M. at Southview Church of God, with Rev. Jackie Flanagan and Rev. Victor Gilbert officiating. The interment followed in Douglas City Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers were: Dustin Gilliard, Andrew Sinclair, Austin Capps, Ashley Batten, Carl Davis and Michael Taft.
Special Musical Selections, “Don’t Overlook Salvation,” was presented by CD of Ricky Van Shelton, “Send Your Best Angel For My Mama,” was presented by CD of The Cook Family, and “Wish You Were Here,” was presented by the Soloist, Joyce Roberts, with Melinda Gilbert, at the Piano. Prelude and postlude soft hymns were rendered by the pianist, Melinda Gilbert.
Ricketson Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.