Joyce Elaine Mikesell

Joyce Elaine (Hawkins) Mikesell passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her family on April 6, 2026. Joyce was born in Fort Scott, KS on February 14, 1948. She was 78 years old.

Her parents were Toney and Huleta Dowell and she was the second eldest daughter in a family of 12 children. Joyce was very proud of her big family and often said how much she loved being a part of it. There were many stories of Joyce spoiling her brothers and sisters. She would give them bikes and dolls whenever she could. Joyce married Duane Eugene Mikesell on March 6,1971 in Wichita, KS. They moved to South Lyon, MI with their 2 children in 1977, where Joyce operated an in-home daycare. She was active in local communities including church, school functions, and her children's activities.

The family moved back to Wichita, KS in 1985. Joyce then entered the work force working at various retail stores including Dillons. She retired from Dillons in 2013. She enjoyed actives such as bowling, playing games, going to lakes, camping, and any other activities with family. Christmas was her favorite time of year. It meant the whole family came together.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Duane Mikesell; her parents Toney and Huleta Dowell of Wichita; 3 brothers Billy, Gene, and Jimmie Dowell all of Wichita; 2 sisters Rita Hawkins of Wichita and Theresa Dowell.

She was survived by her son Toney Mikesell (Qinghua Liu), and her daughter Carrie Mikesell all of Wichita. She had one granddaughter Dylan Mikesell of Federal Way, WA; two brothers Richard (Shelia) Dowell of Wichita and Mike Dowell of Bixby, OK; four sisters Barbara Reents of Canton, GA, Patricia Brustrom of AR, Carol Goodson, and Tanya Craver of Wichita. Joyce was also an aunt, great aunt, and a great-great aunt to loads of nieces and nephews.

Visitation 5-7pm Friday, April 10, at Smith Mortuary Chapel in Derby. Funeral services 1pm Saturday, April 11, at Woodlawn United Methodist Church, with interment at Hillcrest Cemetery in Derby.

Memorial have been established with St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, Heartland Hospice, and Woodlawn United Methodist Church.