Obituary – Julia “Joan” Flatt

Julia “Joan” (Tucker) Flatt was born October 10, 1948, in Carter County, Mo., to William “Roy” and LeNora Grace (Brown) Tucker. She grew up in Licking, Mo., and graduated with the class of 1966 from Licking High School.

Joan was united in marriage to Herbert “LeRoy” King, on May 29, 1965, and this union was blessed with three children, Alecia, Trevor and Joyelle. Joan and LeRoy shared many memories together until his passing on December 13, 1986.

On May 17, 1991, in Salem, Mo., Joan was united in marriage to James “Jim” Leonard Flatt, and this union was blessed with one daughter, Janelle. Joan and Jim were blessed to share thirty-three years creating lasting memories.

Joan graduated in 1976 from Salem School of Cosmetology. Not only did she become a talented cosmetologist but was also successful at owning her own beauty shop where she brought joy and confidence to many of her clients.

Beautiful inside and out, Joan lived her life revolved around caring for her family with unwavering dedication. Spending time making memories with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her great joy. Her family history was very important to her, and she spent many hours expanding her knowledge of her family genealogy and went on to publish several family history books.

Her love of history did not end with her own family, but spanned throughout the area. Joan was also a member of the Dent County Historical Society, the Noah Coleman Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, as well as an organizer of school reunions for Black Oak School. She also wrote two columns for The Licking News, where she would reminisce on her years growing up in Licking, as well as current happenings in the area.

Joan loved music and was a gifted pianist. Throughout her adult life, she played in several bands including Over the Hillbillies and The Bushwackers. She also played the piano at Rock Springs Baptist Church and Blessed Hope Baptist Church, in addition to her twenty-two years of playing at Mount Hermon United Methodist Church. Joan was a lady of great faith, which led her to gaining her certificate as a Lay-Speaker for the United Methodist Church.

Joan entered into eternal rest June 4, 2024, in Licking, Mo., at the age of seventy-five years. Those left behind to cherish her memory include: her loving husband, Jim Flatt, of Salem; children, Alecia Gunter and husband, Bob, of Rolla, Trevor King and wife, Donna, of Rolla, Joyelle Madry and husband, Roger, of Troy, and Janelle Flatt and partner, David, of Columbia; nine grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; ten step-great-grandchildren; extended family and dear friends.

Preceding her in death were: her husband, Herbert “LeRoy” King; parents, William “Roy” and LeNora (Brown) Tucker; sister, Glenda Ragan; and her brothers, Leo Brigman and Glen Brigman.

Joan was a precious gem who was kind, sweet, caring, thoughtful, intelligent and encouraging. Her legacy will live on in the lives she has touched. She will be forever missed.

Funeral Services for Julia Joan (Tucker) Flatt were held Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the Mount Hermon United Methodist Church with Pastor Larry Davis officiating. Song selections played were “Amazing Grace,” “Far Side Banks of Jordan” and “I Don’t Feel At Home Anymore.” Serving as Pallbearers were Roger Madry Jr., Barrett Madry, Remington Madry, Joshua Davis, David Wray II and Stetson Hobbs. Honorary Pallbearers were Trevor King, Jason Ragan and Robert “Bob” Gunter. Burial was in the Mt. Hermon Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel.

Publishers Note: Everyone at The Licking News appreciates Joan’s contributions, through her submissions to the newspaper and as a member of bands that donated their time and talent for the enjoyment of the community. We hope she’s smiling as she sees her beloved hometown “Through the Rearview Mirror.”