Joyce Marie (Burke) Hartline

Joyce Marie (Burke) Hartline, our beloved Mom, Nana, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on August 4, 2025, at the age of 79. Joyce was born on January 12, 1946, in Bay City, Michigan to Clara K. and James A. Burke. She filled her life with love for her family and friends and her passion for travel, leaving behind special memories for all who knew her.

Joyce spent most of her career teaching at Grand Blanc Community Schools, where she was known for her energy, dedication, and love for her students. The family appreciates many former students who have shared their fond memories of having her as a teacher. Beyond the classroom, Joyce loved supporting her daughters in sports - rarely missing a volleyball or basketball game and always cheering proudly from the stands.

After retiring from Grand Blanc, Joyce and Keith moved first to Asheville, NC, and later to Spartanburg, SC, to enjoy their retirement closer to their daughters. We are forever grateful for the many memories created during those years “down south,” surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

Joyce found her greatest joy in her grandchildren, who were the center of her world. She was a steady presence in their lives - celebrating milestones, cheering them on, and sharing her wisdom and humor. Her grandsons especially treasure the many fun memories made at Nana and Papa’s homes in Spartanburg and Kalamazoo.

She had a deep passion for travel and a true sense of wanderlust. Some of her fondest early memories came from the year she took a bold leap as a single mother, moving first to Cape Cod and then to San Diego, before eventually returning to Grand Blanc. She continued to explore new places throughout her life, creating lasting memories abroad that were preserved through her love of scrapbooking.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Keith; her parents; and brother-in-law, David. She is survived by her daughters, Kristen (Jay) Shirah of Colbert, GA, and Leslie (Tommy) Alderson of Greensboro, NC; her grandsons, Jordan and Evan Shirah and Nathan and Jason Alderson; her cherished sister, Judy Bowersock; her niece and family, Erin, Kurt and Zac Passehl; her beloved dog, Bodie; and many dear friends.

A visitation for Joyce will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 10:30 AM and a memorial service immediately following at 11:15 AM at Hill Funeral Home, 11723 South Saginaw, Grand Blanc, Michigan.