Joyce Melba Slaton, 1929-2019

Joyce Slaton, 90, of Lake Wales passed away Tuesday, April 23 at her residence.

She was born January 4, 1929 in Lake Wales to the late Minor E. and Agnes (Davis) Jones. She was one of the first Polio patients diagnosed during a time when they weren't sure what it was and called it Infantile Paralysis. In spite of going thru that, she persevered and conquered her disability. Everyone knew her for her strength and perseverance, her infectious smile and her laughter. She let nothing stop her. She has been a lifelong resident of the area; she was a secretary/bookkeeper for Harry Moran. Joyce enjoyed reading, watching old movies, crime and mystery shows on TV, but mostly visiting with family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her son Mark Slaton and 7 brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her daughter Sherry Unsinger Connelly of Lake Wales, son Matthew Slaton of Lake Wales, 4 grandchildren Lori McLeod, David Cline, Docken Slaton, Hunter Slaton, and 4 great grandchildren Ian McLeod, Christian McLeod, Dane Cline and Stella Slaton.

Graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 27 at the Lake Wales Cemetery. Contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital 1501 West Cleveland Street Suite 230 Tampa, Fl. 33606

Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales is in charge of arrangements.