Joyce Oliver Braswell

Joyce Oliver Braswell, 69, of Columbia passed away on Friday, April18, 2014. Born in Roanoke, VA on May 29, 1944 she was the daughter of the late Stearl E. Oliver and Burma Warren Oliver. She attended East Carolina University where she was a member of Chi Omega Sorority. After graduating from college in 1966, she began her teaching career in Charlotte. She was married in June, 1967 and began her cherished profession as a mother. Not only did she serve as a loving mother and grandmother, she was a loving and devoted wife to Curtis. She gave not only of herself to her family but to so many people who crossed her path throughout life. Giving to others and to the Lord's work came natural to her. She made others feel so welcome wherever she was. Her love of children led her to serve in the pre-school department of First Baptist Church for over 15 years. She found such great joy in children. Her life had such a positive impact on so many people. Simply put, she was a wonderful friend to those who knew her. Joyce is survived by her husband, Curtis Braswell; a daughter, Heather Mesenbourg (Jonathan) of Charleston, SC; son, Rev. Todd Braswell (Rebecca) of Lenoir, NC; brother, Kenneth Oliver (Donna) of Kennesaw, GA and grandchildren, Taylor Braswell, Jake Braswell, Makena Mesenbourg, and Zeke Mesenbourg. A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00pm Saturday, April 26, 2014 in Boyce Chapel at First Baptist Church, 1306 Hampton Street, Columbia, SC. Rev. Dennis Banks and Dr. Phil Steyne will officiate. The family will receive friends immediately after the service in Ellis Hall. Woodridge Funeral Home is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.