Joan Rebecca Dennis Artz, a native of Frederick, Md., passed away on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020.

She was a graduate of St. John’s Literary Institute and took business courses at The Academy of Visitation in Frederick, Md. She has lived in Vicksburg since 1956 having married Dr. Waverley Artz in 1952. She is preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Waverley Artz Sr.; and a daughter, Priscilla. 

“Ms. Becky,” as she was known, was past president of the Community Council in 1967, at which time she first organized the “Meals on Wheels” program having read an article from England on the subject. She was also helpful in organizing the Jackson “Meals on Wheels” program.

She served as president at the United Way of West Central Mississippi in 1975, and instrumental in obtaining the first halfway house in Vicksburg. She was a mentor of the Salvation Army Advisory Board for 25 years. She organized the “Fishers of Men” first offender program, helping the youth.

She was a past member of the Warren County President’s Council of Prison Ministry, Past Perfect of the Blessed Virgin Sodality, and an active member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church.

She is survived by five children, Waverley Artz Jr. (Maryann), Jancsi Artz Saums (Charlie), Becky McCaskill (Eric), Amy Beasley, Meg Fortenberry (Trent); grandchildren, Lee Artz, Jenna Koestler, Richard Jackson, Jeremy McCaskill, Melanie McCaskill, Drew Beasley and Reed Beasley; great-grandchildren, Noah Beasley, Otto Beasley and Wilder Beasley, Mariella Jackson, Lynnen Jackson and Fallon Koestler. 

There will be a private family service at Fisher-Riles Chapel. 

In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to St. Jude’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn.