Joyce Lutrail Ward

Joyce Lutrail Ward, 84, of Apopka, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026. She was born on January 21, 1942, in Alapaha, Georgia, to Tommy and Idell Metts.

Joyce graduated from Lakeview High School in Winter Garden, Florida. On August 6, 1960, she married the love of her life, George Ward. Together, they shared a wonderful 61-year marriage filled with love, family, and countless memories.

Joyce was a devoted homemaker and a full-time mother who dedicated her life to caring for her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Joyce had a passion for baking, reading, watching crime shows, and, most of all, her family. She also loved a good conversation and could happily chat with family, friends, or complete strangers—on the phone or in person. She will be remembered for the love she gave so freely, the warmth she brought to her home, and the special place she held in the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Ward; her parents, Tommy and Idell Metts; her sister, Delores Seagraves; her brother, Thomas Metts; and her uncle, Curtis Stone.

She is survived by her son, George R. Ward; her daughter, Lori Macherone; and her daughter-in-law, Tammy Ward. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Chad Macherone, Sloane Etheredge, Corey Macherone, Madison Marn, and Makenna Macherone; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Jettie Etheredge, Dominic Macherone, Kainan Marn, Strider Etheredge, and Wrenley Macherone.

Joyce will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew and loved her. Although she is no longer with us, her love, memories, and the life she built with her family will live on in their hearts forever.