Joyce McElveen Hurden, aged 90, of Slidell, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in Slidell, while surrounded by her loving family.

Joyce was known for her kind heart, strong work ethic, and deep love for her children and many grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Born in New Orleans on October 24, 1935, to parents Sophia Nicolaides-Scalise and James LeBlanc, Joyce graduated from Nicholls High School. She went on to enjoy a successful career as a professional ballroom dancer, performing and teaching for many years at the Arthur Murray School of Dance. Her passion for dance remained with her throughout her life.

A woman of strong faith, Joyce lived devotedly by God's word and teachings. She raised her six children on her own while working as an executive secretary, dedicating her life to their care and sacrificing greatly to give them the best opportunities possible.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Hurden, and her sons, David Ashley McElveen and James Andre McElveen.

She is survived by her children: Denise McElveen-Elia (Paul), Diana McElveen-Crowe (Steven), Matthew Douglas McElveen (Julie), and Steven Denney McElveen (Kendall); her brother, Joseph Scalise (Kay); and twenty-three grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the first-floor ICU team at Slidell Memorial Hospital—for their incredible compassion and care. They also thank the Hospice House team, who continued that loving support.

Funeral Services will be held at Honaker Funeral Home, 1751 Gause Blvd West, Slidell LA on Thursday, April 23, 2026.  Visitation will begin at 9:00am followed by the funeral service at 11:00am.  Burial will be in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Slidell.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Hospice House (Hospice Foundation of the South) at www.TheHospiceHouse.org.