Joyce Anne Tifft

Joyce Whitney Tifft, beloved wife and mother, passed away in the early morning hours of December 16, 2023, after a long battle with dementia. She was born in Salisbury, Vermont, to Vaughn and Gladys Whitney on August 5, 1937. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Woodburn (Chuck) Tifft, and her daughters; Lynne Tifft Simons (Craig, deceased), Robin Tifft Sassani (John), and Leslie Tifft Jensen (Matt). She is also survived by her grandchildren; Maria Sassani Gordon (Jonathan), Michael Sassani, Nick Sassani (Katherine), Bailey Simons Gathany (Joshua), Brenna Simons Machovec (Jonathan), Haley Jensen, Emmet Jensen, and Ellie Jensen. Her surviving great grandchildren are; Adelina Gordon, Joshua Gordon, Anthony Sassani and Genevieve Sassani. She is also survived by her sister Rita Whitney Luongo (Joe, deceased), her sister-in-law Sylvia Leavitt (Dick), and her dearest friend Mary Sternquist.

She was predeceased by her siblings; Audrey Whitney, Vernon Whitney, Gwen Whitney Howe, Thelma Whitney Bushway, Barb Whitney Elliott and Dotty Whitney Streeter. She was also predeceased by her dear mother-in-law Agnes Tifft Isham.

Joyce was raised by her sister Audrey, after her mother died when she was very young. She was a dedicated student, avid reader and a frequent visitor to the Middlebury Library (the front steps were huge! as she always told us). She attended the University of Connecticut, where she graduated as salutatorian, cum laude with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Physical Therapy. She worked as a physical therapist only for a short time, because she married the love of her life, Chuck, in June of 1961. She then devoted her time and energy to her family. Joyce and Chuck lived in many places throughout the years, including; New York, California, England (twice), Texas, Florida and finally North Carolina. Joyce was always ready to pick up and go; whether for a three-year move to another country, or a weekend trip to see the girls. Later, when the kids were older, she worked as a library clerk at Your Home Library in Johnson City. She met and remained friends with many people there, especially her good friend Sharon.

Joyce and Chuck pursued many interests together throughout their marriage; sailing trips on their sailboat, baking bread, making wine, barbecuing, and many, many trips to Books-A-Million (just to name a few!). Joyce’s personal interests included knitting, shopping, reading, and later on—coloring.

Joyce also had a great love for her sisters, her brother, her cousins, and her many nieces and nephews. She loved the mini reunions with her siblings. The Whitney family reunions were especially important to her. These yearly get-togethers were appreciated and anticipated throughout the entire year. The “Sisters” were known for their 5 AM gatherings around the kitchen table (complete with coffee and non-stop, LOUD conversations!). She also enjoyed performing in the talent shows with her siblings.

Joyce was an unconditionally loving and kind woman. She was known for her bright, warm and wonderful smile—which was only matched by her bright, warm and incredibly wonderful heart. She will be missed greatly.