Joyce Elaine Anthis Connor passed September 21, 2026. Services will be held at First Baptist Church at 10:00 am Friday, September 23. Graveside services immediately following. Pallbearers will be C.M. Cody Connor, James L. Smith, Chuck Morgan, Richard Haldeman, Robert Guthrie and Barry Dungan.

Joyce was born May 1, 1935 in Cushing, Oklahoma to Charles L. Anthis, her father, and her mother, Ida M. Roberts Anthis "Trot". The Anthis family consisted of 2 boys: Floyd H. Anthis and Joseph L. Anthis, and 3 girls: Mary Jane Karspeck and Charlene Rose Dungan and of course Joyce who was the youngest of the brood.

Joyce met and fell in love with Clarence C. Connor Jr. while in High School in Artesia. They married in 1953 in Artesia where they also raised 2 boys: Craig Caldwell and Kevin Carrol.

Joyce went on to open her own store in downtown Artesia, "Joyce's Decor and Gifts". The store specialized in bridal gifts, decor, and unique items. For a number of years "Joyce's" was a successful business and fixture in Artesia.

Clarence built and operated his own business in Artesia, Connor Electric and Refrigeration, and after almost two successful decades, he chose a path that led him to a 17 year career as State Electrical Inspector.

Upon Clarence's retirement from the State, Joyce put her store up for sale. Afterwards they traveled with family and friends extensively. Joyce and Clarence were married almost 65 years before Clarence's death in 2018.

Joyce was cared for in her later years by her son Kevin and his wife Donnita.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents Charles L. and Ida M. Anthis, as well as siblings Floyd Anthis, Joe Anthis, Mary Jane Karspeck, and Charlene Dungan. In addition Craig Caldwell Connor her oldest son, and Clarence preceded her as well.

Joyce will be laid to rest at Woodbine Cemetery in Artesia.