Joyce Irene Chandler Tawwatters

A Graveside service for Joyce Irene Chandler Tawwatters, 90, will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Mt. Mariah Cemetery, 101 Mt. Mariah Rd, Athens, Louisiana. Officiating the service will be Pastor Tommy Davidson.

Joyce Tawwatters, age 90, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, April 27, 2025. Joyce was born to Gerald and Vera Chandler on January 14, 1935, in Bienville Parish.

Joyce earned her master's degree from Northwestern State University and a Reading Specialist Degree from Centenary College while managing her home and raising her two children.

She began her career as an educator in 1971. She was instrumental in leading the Pep Squad and eventually became a school counselor before retiring. Her career lasted 28.5 years.

Poetry was her creative passion that she shared with others. She was accomplished in playing ten different instruments, including the organ, French horn, accordion, dulcimer, and lap harp. Throughout her life, she taught many students how to play her favorite instrument, the piano.

Joyce also was the pianist for several local churches for over 60 years, while always willing to help with missions and Vacation Bible School.

She was a natural-born leader. Her kindness, compassion, beautiful smile, and capacity to bring joy to those around her will always be remembered.

Joyce was preceded in death by her son, Randy Alan Tawwatters, and the father of their children, Norman Lem Tawwatters. She is survived by her daughter, Sheri Denise Tawwatters.

Honoring Joyce as pallbearers will be Charles D. Chandler, Jr., Joshua Chandler, Jacob Chandler, Dustin Digilormo, Chase Traylor, and Zachary Winterrowd.

The family suggests memorials may be made to Centenary Suzuki School, www.centenarysuzuki.com