Patricia Joan French 90, of Rector, Ark., departed this life on October 5, 2022 while a resident of Stonebridge Assisted Living in Pocahontas, Ark.

She was born November 20, 1931 in Rector, to the late Amzie McCord and Velma “Garrett” McCord.

In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Merrell French and her sister Mary Lou Horton of Jonesboro, Ark.

She is survived by three brothers: Jim McCord of Kennett, Mo., John McCord of Dewitt, Ark., and Jack McCord of Pocahontas, Ark., along with several loving nieces and nephews.

Joan graduated from Rector High School in 1949 as salutatorian of her class. She went to work for Ark Mo Power Company in Rector at the early age of 17, having worked there for 41 years. After retirement Joan worked several years as a tour guide for a travel company in Missouri which allowed her to travel all over the United States and several foreign countries, which she enjoyed very much.

Joan was a faithful member Patricia Joan French of the First Baptist Church in Rector, having taught Sunday School classes for several years. The family would like to express their gratitude to Stonebridge Assisted Living in Pocahontas for the care given to Joan in the last years of her life.

Any memorials may be made to the charity of your choice or the Humane Society.

Graveside services were held at 1 p.m. Friday, October 7, 2022, at Woodland Heights Cemetery.

Irby-Mitchell Funeral Home of Rector was in charge of arrangements. Those who wish may sign the online guestbook at www.irbyfuneralhome.com