Joan Marguerite Traylor (Sadler), aged 80, passed away on July 24, 2024, in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Born on December 18, 1943, in Piqua, Ohio. Joan was a beloved figure in her community and a distinguished figure in the field of interior design.


Joan's academic journey began at Henry Clay High School in Lexington, KY and led her to the University of Kentucky and Western Kentucky University, where she graduated in 1984 with a Master's degree in Interior Design and Architectural Design. Mrs. Traylor taught for 25 years. Her professional career was marked by significant achievements, including serving as the program coordinator for the Interior Design program at the University of Southern Mississippi for the last 18 years. She was an associate tenured professor for 25 years, under whose leadership the Interior Design program became the first in Mississippi to receive accreditation by the NASAD (National Association of Schools of Art and Design). Joan also played a pivotal role in securing accreditation from the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the National Fine Arts for the program. Her dedication to her field was recognized when she was awarded Outstanding Alumni at Western Kentucky in 2010 and was frequently listed in Who's Who of Interior Design. Mrs. Traylor was Professor of Record for 16 years of the Summer British Interior Design Studies study abroad program in London, England.


Beyond her professional life, Joan was deeply committed to her family and community. She is survived by her son Jerry Douglas Traylor and daughter Michelle Pickett, son-in-law Pete Pickett II, along with her grandchildren Peter Anthony Pickett III and Ashleigh Pickett; her siblings James Sadler and Charlotte Brown; and her nephews and nieces Michael and Tina Wright, Carlene Suiter, and Danny Wright. Joan was preceded in death by her parents Carl Eugene Sadler and Mary Earline Bond Sadler, brother Carl Jr. Sadler and nephew Ken Wright.


Joan's life was enriched by her passions, art and design, ceramics, traveling, exploring new cuisines, and spending cherished moments with her children and grandchildren.


The family has entrusted Strode Funeral Home in Stillwater, Oklahoma, with the arrangements. Joan's life and legacy will be remembered for her unwavering support to her family, her contributions to the field of interior design, and her kindness and smile that touched all who knew her.