Joyce Dobnikar

Joyce Dobnikar of Hoover, AL joined our Lord and Savioron Thursday, July 1, 2021. Joyce was 79, born March 28, 1942,in Paducah, KY to the late George Harrison (Mac) Cooper and Lyda Jeanette (Susie) Pace Cooper. She was preceded in death by her sister, Fay Cooper Kemp (d. Bryan) of Fredericktown, MO and survived by siblings, Jerry Cooper (m. Grace) of Dallas, TX, and Janice Cooper Akridge (d. Cleon) of St. Louis, MO.

Survivors also include: husband – Marvin Wayne Dobnikar of Hoover, AL (m. 59 years); children – Todd Wayne Dobnikar(m. Karen) of Ocoee, FL, Paul Bryan Dobnikar of Hoover, AL, Joey Mitchell Dobnikar of Hoover, AL, Mark Edward Dobnikar (m. Heather) of Hoover, AL; grandchildren – Jason Dobnikar and Erica Dobnikar Adams (m. Kurt) (Paula Longshore Bratina), Adam Dobnikar and Stephanie Dobnikar (Karen Brawley Dobnikar), Nicole Smith (Olivia Smith), Grace Dobnikar, Carlie Dobnikar, Cooper Dobnikar; great grandchildren – Everly Adams, Finley Adams (expected);extended family and friends.

Joyce enjoyed her young adolescence and young adulthood in St. Louis, MO. Her experiences while there included marrying the love her life, Marvin, and having her four boys. In her early thirties she and her family moved to Birmingham, AL, while deeply missing her family back home.

Joyce had a passion for gardening. Over the years her yard was full of luscious plants, flowers, and trees that were well groomed. She always attributed her green thumb to her mother.She also had a passion for cooking. She supplied countless amazing dishes throughout the years to her family whether it be a regular Monday night dinner or an extravagant Thanksgiving meal.

For many years, Joyce managed the Hoover Ballpark concession stand where many of her kids’ friends got their first job. She was known for bringing in new food favorites for all to enjoy. Joyce was beloved by the parents and children at the park. While juggling this job, she simultaneously watched three of her four boys play baseball on different fields. This is how Mrs. D got the nickname, “The Lady on the Hill”. In the early 80’s,Joyce was named “Woman of the Year” in the local Hoover newspaper for her dedication to the park community.

Beginning in the 90’s, Joyce began babysitting not only her grandchildren, but also many other kids. It turned into a booming daycare business with an extensive waiting list. This is a testament to her kind and loving nature.

Joyce was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was humble, selfless, loving, and kind. She always endeavored to provide comfort and joy. She was tireless in her love of family. Her gentle wisdom and loving demeanor served as an example of goodness for all. Joyce was an extremely sweet woman beloved by all who will be forever cherished and missed.

Family and friends are invited to attend her celebration of life on Tuesday, July 6, 2021. Visitation will be held at Currie Jefferson Funeral Home in Hoover, AL located at 2701 John Hawkins Parkway 35244 from 10am - 11am with chapel service at 11am, followed by the graveside dedication.