Joyce Collins-Merriman Dean

March 22, 1961 ~ January 22, 2021

Joyce Jeanine Collins-Merriman Dean was born on March 22, 1961, in Escondido, California. She died January 22, 2021, at her home on North Doyle Road in Holden, Louisiana. Joyce’s family moved from California to Louisiana when she was 12. From an early age, Joyce expressed her love for others, finding great joy in keeping those around her happy and secure. Joyce loved being in the kitchen cooking for her family. She believed a good ole home cooked meal cured any ailment, and anyone who has tasted her cooking would whole-heartedly agree. A talented seamstress, Joyce found joy in gifting others with her creations. A real sweetheart, she appeared incapable of sharing anything but kindness and love in any situation. Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 28 years, Vernon Dean of Holden; two daughters, Christy Ardoin of Lake Charles and Sherri Jeansonne of Albany; her father, Jim Collins of Holden; two sisters, Teri Arvello (with her husband, Mike) of Hammond, and Janna Arledge (with her husband, Lyndon) of Livingston; three brothers, Jimmy Collins (with his wife, Karen) of Holden, George Merriman, and Johnny Merriman of Indiana; three grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Joyce’s mother, Vera “Jeanie” Collins; her brother, Robert “Bobby” Merriman; and a nephew, Geza Ray Kovach, Jr.; preceded her in death. Holden Baptist Church hosts the funeral service under the direction of Seale’s Funeral Home, Wednesday, January 27, 2021, following visitation from 10 a.m. until noon. Brother Carl Sullivan will officiate the service.