Joyce Ellen Burkhart

Joyce “Joy” Ellen Craig Burkhart, age 77, of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 21st, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 27th, 1948, in Brockton, Massachusetts, Joy was the beloved daughter of Constance “Connie” Arnold Craig and Richard Ansel Craig and spent her early years in Abington, Mass, before moving to Tallahassee in 1958. One of five children, Joy cherished her childhood on Cape Cod. Her siblings Malcolm Craig, Lee Ann Cook, Janet Stokes, and Ronda Craig remained deeply connected to her throughout her life. Joy was known for her kindness, resilience, and generous spirit, and lived a life full of love, friendship, and strength. She was married to her devoted husband, Alan Burkhart, whom she wed in 1983. Together, they shared over four decades of love, partnership, and unwavering support, especially throughout her illness. Earlier in life, she shared chapters of her journey with Howard Clark and John Mawhinney, both of whom she remained close friends with. Joy was a devoted mother of three sons, who were the light of her life and the source of her greatest pride. Her sons Dustin Shane Clark(deceased), Bryan Craig Clark and his wife Tori, Richard “Brad” Mawhinney (deceased) and his wife Karen. She was also a cherished grandmother to Megan Clark, Kirstin Bodie, Rylan Clark, Hayes Clark and Ben Mawhinney and a great-grandmother to Jensen, Brylee, Mia, and Leila O’Connor. Joy was a graduate of Leon High School. In her professional life, Joy began her career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and worked in various healthcare settings. Eventually, she found her true calling at Lincoln High School, where she spent 30 years. She was a beloved part of the school community, known for her compassion, dedication, and the care she provided for countless students and staff. She retired in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and service. After retiring, Joy enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She loved journaling, puzzles and being out in nature. She loved her neighborhood community in the Miccosukee Land Co-op. Her spirit of service continued there. Whether lending a helping hand at the community center, sharing a warm conversation, or simply brightening someone’s day, she remained a source of kindness and connection in her later years. Joy is survived by her husband, Alan Burkhart; her son, Bryan Clark; and her grandchildren Megan, Kirstin, Rylan, Hayes and Ben and her great-grandchildren Jensen, Brylee, Mia and Leila. She is also survived by her siblings, Malcolm Craig (Allys), Lee Ann Cook (David), Janet Stokes, and Ronda Craig as well as many nieces and nephews and a host of wonderful friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved sons, Dustin Clark and Brad Mawhinney and her parents, Connie and Richard Craig. A celebration of her life is being planned at the Miccosukee Land Co-Op community center. Date and details will be shared soon. Friends and family are warmly invited to attend and share memories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Bend Hospice in her memory. Though we grieve her passing, we find comfort knowing she is reunited with those she loved and that her spirit lives on in all of us. Mrs. Burkhart is under the care of Jackie Fulford and James Sircy of Young Fulford Funeral Home, Tallahassee, Florida. 850.610.4444

Joyce Ellen Burkhart

May 27, 1948 - July 21, 2025