Obituary of Joyce Butler Smith

Butler, Joyce Smith, 75, of Tazewell, passed away November 1^st, 2021 following

an extended illness.  A life-long seeker of knowledge and avid reader, she was a

dedicated educator for thirty plus years.  Joyce spent most of her teaching career

as a guidance counselor with a passion for helping young people learn a variety of

different life skills while providing guidance for their futures.  Joyce was highly

regarded in her field with many career positions and accomplishments and

including president of the Smoky Mountain Counseling Association, Tennessee

Association of Middle Schools Board of Trustee and Educator of the Year, Middle

School Counselor of the Year, and Knox County Middle School Teacher of the

Year.   Joyce was a devoted daughter to long-time Tazewell community fixtures,

Kenneth and Marjorie Butler.  Being the oldest of three, she enjoyed helping her

younger siblings with their schoolwork.  One could certainly say she became an

educator at an early age.  Joyce was valedictorian of her senior class at Claiborne

County High School and graduated with honors from Lincoln Memorial University

with a master’s degree in education.  And while studying and reading occupied

much of her time, let it be known she also liked to have fun. 

Joyce enjoyed racing a 1959 Ford Fairlane around town.  She was always up for a

race and usually WON!  Joyce married her high school sweetheart, Bill, and

together they had a daughter, Kenley, who held a special place in both of their

hearts.  Joyce was a spiritual lady and dedicated member of Thompsons Chapel

Church, where she enjoyed many church activities including working in the

Shepherd’s Closet.  Throughout her life, she enjoyed spending time with her Aunt

Betty Jo.  They were close in age and more like sisters, and were always up for a

good adventure.  Preceded in death by husband William (Bill) G. Smith, father,

Kenneth Butler Sr., and mother, Marjorie Butler.  Survivors include brother

Kenneth Butler Jr., sister Doris Butler, daughter Kenley Smith Early (Steve), aunt

Betty Jo Shoffner, and special friend Michelle Arnwine.  Joyce will be deeply

missed by all those who knew her.  When you think of her, think of the good

memories you share.  Private graveside services were held for immediate family

only, due to COVID, in Tazewell in early November. In lieu of flowers the family requests

that donations be made to Parkinson's Disease research fund or to the

Thompson's Chapel Cemetery in C/O Bud Butler 302 Ball Creek Rd., New Tazewell, TN 37825.