I’m sorry this is so late. I just found out.  My deepest condolences to your family my sweet friend. Class of 1973 McCollum High. 

I’ve been out of the country in Haiti intermittently for the past several years and hadn’t heard of Joyce’s passing.  Thanks Katie for reaching out personally to me.   Joyce and I  worked together at Transwestern for 10 years.  She turned my marketing ideas (chicken s...scratch) into the most wonderful and elegant chicken salad.  She frequently worked after hours and on weekends to help us with graphics and materials for our ministry in Haiti.  She always loved seeing our pictures and was quick to help us without compensation.   Joyce was always upbeat and a solid Christian woman who walked the talk at the office.  She was always at our monthly Bible studies with mature observations.  Jealous that she’s at the feet of Jesus, but we’ll catch up in time.  Praising God for no more tears or illness for our sweet friend!

Mom was an avid reader and encouraged her children and grandchildren to read, read, read! From the time we were very small, she would read story after story…or, if we were REALLY lucky, she would create a story using her incredibly vivid imagination. As a mom myself, I think of those “on the fly” stories with a sort of awe. Her storytelling was seamless, perfectly crafted down to the last detail, to fit exactly what we wanted to hear. 

As time went on, Mom began to read books to us that had more substance. She was known to create her own audiobooks, recording her sweet voice reading “Little Pilgrim’s Progress,” or (my favorite) “At Risk” by Alice Hoffman, a book I still read at least once a year. She had a way of hooking us into a story or a novel. Maybe it was one we would have discovered on our own, but her joy and excitement? Well, that was all part of the experience! Mom made everything come to life.

One of my greatest joys was reading chapters of “Little Pilgrim’s Progress” to you, Mom, as you made your own journey to the Celestial City. Being your daughter is not just a privilege. It is truly a gift.

I love you forever, no matter what.


Once upon a time, I inherited a Christmas cactus plant from a workmate who moved. I always enjoyed talking plants with Aunt Joyce, and once when she was visiting I started griping about the so-called Christmas cactus, obviously misnamed, as it never bloomed or did anything else but sit there and look pathetic. She ended up taking the sad-looking succulent off of my hands. A year or two later in December I got a text message from Auntie J with a picture of a thriving Christmas cactus-- in bloom! She laughingly said, "It's a miracle!" but I know the difference was her... she just had that extra magic touch with plants like Starka has. Maybe she was the extra sunshine that plant needed. Every time I see a Christmas cactus, I think of her. 

Written for and dedicated to Joyce when she was first diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. I'm beyond blessed and grateful for many wonderful memories shared with me and my family over the years.  You will be missed so very dearly:

A Joyous Journey 

As years pass,
From cradle to grave, experiences to amass.
Her first heartbeat ~~ a strong and steadfast beat,
Her first footsteps ~~ the first of many travels beneath her feet.

As years pass,
Her travels and adventures so pure,
Now lead her to the classroom where her questions find a cure.
Gifted, beautiful and smart she excels…
And blooms in so many ways,
Like a flower that bears her beautiful smile…
No denying this child’s soul innate.

As years pass,
A young adult is she…
So determined and full of life,
She knows she holds the key.
Which door will she open,
Or direction travel next?
A lock only she can open,
Hidden deep within her breast.

As years pass,
The future in her sights…
Although she sometimes thinks she’s not strong enough,
Her future shines so bright.
A beautiful woman in the mirror, 
Every day she sees.
But it cannot reveal what’s deep,
That strong and steadfast beat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNp-woRi1fg&t=45s


Our sincerest sympathies to Joyce’s family. She was such a kind soul with a joyous smile. Thankful to get to know her over many years with LLS’ Team In Training, and to call her a friend. Love her way. 

Joyce's beauty matched her natural elegance and graceful soul. Friends since the 7th grade, our memories included school dances, field trips, spirit poster parties. and high school fun. 

After graduation we enjoyed visiting art museums and galleries, concerts, theatrical plays, zoo, movies and hanging out with dear friends. 

Like so many, I am blessed and grateful to have experienced life, love and laughter with sweet Joyce.  I join her friends and loved ones in wishing her daughters and family sincere condolences. May God Bless you all. 

Rest in Peace, dearest Joyce. Thank you for being the angel you were and are now. 

Thank you for live streaming the service for Joyce. She has meant so much to me and many of us involved with Team in Training. We will continue our efforts with her in our hearts. I am thankful to have had her as a friend in my life. 

Joyce was a very brave and gracious lady.  We will miss her but heaven will have a beautiful angel.



We met Joyce in our Bible Study. The friendliness and kindness she shared made her impossible to forget. That friendship grew through devotionals, texts and occasional visits. Her love of scripture and gardening made our conversations special. My prayers to the family, we will miss Joyce.
Joe and Marjorie Jarels

I got to know Joyce over the last couple of years. I loved her like I had known her for years. She was in my care group. This leaves such a void in our group. She was a beautiful person & will be missed. We
know she is at peace & with the Lord now. She will be watching over her beautiful daughters & family. I know this will be a comfort.
Much love,
Deborah Graham

I remember when I was younger, me and Nana went on a walk. We ran into one of our neighbors daughters and we greeted each other. She says her name and I say mine, and then nana says, “Hello, my name is Joyce, nice to meet you.” I immediately say, “NO, your name is nana.” and, nana starts laughing and I was just standing there very confused. 

There aren't words strong enough to express how much my Mom means to me. Every step of the way my entire life, she has been there with a smile, understanding and listening, trying her best to encourage my independence. I can't say enough. I will miss her every minute for the rest of my life. Love you, Mama.



Joyce and I worked together at Transwestern as graphic designers. She was loving, kind, generous and fun!  One Halloween we dressed up as Super Graphics Woman and her sidekick Photoshop. We had outfits with capes, scooters that were our super hero modes of transportation and we drove around the office solving graphic emergencies. That is how I will always remember her- laughing and having the time of her life.  She was my friend, my confidant and I am better for knowing her. Rest In Peace with Jesus, my dear friend. 

We went to high school together and were Dance Team Captains.  Oh what fun we had together.  Loved her.  Kept in touch thru FB and saw her smiling face with her beautiful daughters.  May you Rest in peace, Joyce.  Prayers for your family especially your Mom and daughters. 

My deepest sympathy to the family.  I never knew Joyce but have seen her quite a few times during our TNT training meet ups and Happy Hours.   I will always remember her beautiful smile.   I have met lifelong friends through LLS/TNT.  The loss of a fellow TNT’er due to blood cancer breaks my heart.  Rejoice in heaven, Joyce!  

Sincerely, 
Lorelei Bautista

On behalf of everyone at VNA Ann's Haven Hospice, it was an honor to be of service to Joyce and your family.  We hold you all in our thoughts and prayers.

My husband and I both to jr high and high school with Joyce. She was a wonderful person and loved by all. Joyce was caring, loving and so talented. 
Our prayers are with you all, God Bless.
May she Rest In Peace.
Love, 
Jan & Rene Lares


OBITUARY

Joyce Lynn Williams

1 March, 1955 – 13 December, 2020

Rolling Oaks Funeral Home

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