Joyce Hardin Andrews, a lifelong resident of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away on October 6, 2026, at the age of 96. Joyce lived a full and beautiful life, marked by her devotion to family, faith, friendships, and the many activities that brought her such joy.
Born on June 3, 1930, in Shreveport, Joyce was the daughter of Edward Owen Hardin and Emily Bryan Hardin. An excellent student, she was always proud to share that she skipped a grade in school. She attended Alexander School and C.E. Byrd High School, an institution she dearly loved, graduating in 1946. During her years at Byrd, she served as an ROTC sponsor and was active in numerous clubs and organizations.
Joyce continued her education at Centenary College of Louisiana, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1950. Her college years were among her most cherished memories. She was a Maroon Jacket, was selected for Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges, served as president of her sorority, Alpha Xi Delta, and was honored with the title of Centenary Lady. Most importantly, Centenary was where she met the love of her life, Halton Haden “Andy” Andrews, her husband of 68 years. Her affection for Centenary never faded. As one of her recent caregivers humorously remarked, Joyce wasn’t going to have a conversation without mentioning Centenary College!
Following her marriage and the birth of their three children, Joyce worked at General Electric, in the engineering department. Later, she devoted approximately 20 years to volunteering as a Pink Lady at Schumpert Medical Center, faithfully giving her time and talents in service to others.
A lifelong member of Noel United Methodist Church, Joyce’s faith was an important part of her life. She was actively involved in the church and organized a ministry dedicated to visiting those who were hospitalized, offering friendship, encouragement, and comfort to others.
Joyce had an extraordinary zest for life and never missed an opportunity to enjoy the company of friends. She loved playing games of every kind, especially Rummikub, Mexican Train, and anything else someone was willing to play with her. She was also a cherished member of a close-knit group of faithful friends who gathered for lunch every Thursday for many, many years. These friendships brought her immeasurable happiness.
When asked about her favorite sport, Joyce would proudly answer, “Dancing!” She especially loved the jitterbug and tap dancing, and she often said with a smile, “I hope there is tap dancing in heaven.” Those who knew her can only imagine that she is now dancing to her heart’s content.
Affectionately known as Mimi, she never met a stranger. She had a genuine interest in everyone she encountered and especially loved hearing about their families and celebrating their accomplishments. Her warmth, curiosity, quick wit, and enthusiasm for life made her a joy to be around. She had a special way of making others feel important, remembered, and loved.
Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andy, and her parents.
She is survived by her three children, Susan Andrews Wood (John), Scott Hardin Andrews, and Gregory Haden Andrews (Sean); two grandsons, David Andrews Wood (Kathryn) and Brad Franklin Wood (Meghan); and four great-granddaughters, Caroline, Camille, Lauren, and Kate Wood. She is also survived by two sisters-in-law and several nieces and nephews.
We wish to express our deepest appreciation for the loving devotion and care provided by longtime friend and caregiver Charlene Vaughn. In addition, we would like to thank Patricia Bell, Gloria Johnson, and the many compassionate caregivers from Elite Healthcare Solutions and Stat Home Health.
A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Noel United Methodist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana, with a reception immediately following.
Memorial contributions may be made to Centenary College of Louisiana, 2911 Centenary Boulevard, Shreveport, LA 71104, or Noel United Methodist Church, 520 Herndon Street, Shreveport, LA 71101.
Joyce leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, laughter, friendship, and a life enthusiastically lived. She will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.