Joyce Baker Cross

Joyce Baker Cross, 89, of Murrells Inlet, SC passed away Friday, April 25, 2025.

She was born in Durant, Oklahoma, the daughter of the late Willie Calvin Hitt Stephens and Ernest Lawrence Stephens.

Joyce was an avid bowler and a devoted bingo enthusiast, always bringing energy and joy to every game. A passionate traveler, she journeyed across 48 U.S. states, collecting memories and stories along the way. Her greatest joy came from her family, she adored her children and was a proud, supportive presence at every baseball game. A loyal Atlanta Braves fan, Joyce cheered with heart and spirit, always believing in her team.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by the father of her children and husband of thirty-three years, Robert James Baker; her second husband of twenty-two years, Denver Cross; brother Jack Stephens; and sister, Sue McKenzie.

Surviving are sons, Robert James (Bridget) Baker, Jr and Stephen Randall (Sandy) Baker; daughter,, Arlene (Sonny) Gibson; grandchildren, James (Karen) Simmons, Amber Harrison, Rachel Ann (Will) Callaway, Rebecca Lee Baker, Kelly Baker, Lauren Baker; great grandchildren, Jada Simmons, Jamie Simmons, Julian Simmons, Sydney Harrison, Reagan Callaway and Luka Baker-Banks; and brother, Curt (Betsy) Stephens.

The family will receive friends 1:00 – 2:00 PM Friday, May 2, 2025, at Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home in Florence, SC with the service to follow at 2:00 PM.

Please sign the Guest Book for the family at www.stoudenmiredowling.com