Joyce Elaine Gardiner

Joyce was born on June 16, 1946, to Morris and Cora Vanscoy in Columbus, Ohio. After graduation Joyce traveled around the United States and worked in many places as an accountant. After settling in Texas for several years, Joyce worked for Life Outreach International for over 30 years as their Vice President of Administration and Comptroller.

Joyce had two children, Cynthia Elaine Barker and Nena Elaine Johnson.

Many years throughout her life Joyce mentored and counseled many people. She was a “mom” to many. In 2007 she opened The Home of Greater Joy, a woman’s shelter, and was able to help many young women become independent and successful in their futures. In 2020, Joyce retired from Life Outreach and enjoyed knitting and crocheting many blankets while spending time with family.

Joyce was predeceased by her parents, Morris and Cora Vanscoy; sister, Marjorie Milliken; and brother, Gerald Vanscoy.

She is survived by daughters, Cindy Elaine (Gary) Barker and Nena Elaine (Steve) Johnson; and many sons and daughters by “choice”. Sister, Vicki Horsley; grandchildren, Ellen-Joyce Nicole Barker, Gary Dale (Ashley) Horsley, Chazleigh Colton, Brooke Nicole Johnson, and Kason James Johnson; great-grandchildren, Lexie-Larae Bell Kovatch, Jaxson Barker, Avanlee Horsley, Jackson Horsley, and Kenzington Horsley; nieces and nephews, Shelly (Jeremy) Tinkler, Lisa Howard, Jeffery (Pam) Milliken, Jerry (Gina) Vanscoy, Gary (Bonnie) Vanscoy, Mike (Crystal) Vanscoy; and many other family members.

Services will be held at Moore Bowen Road Funeral Home on December 2, 2023, at 11:00 am. A Celebration of Life will be held afterwards at her former residence.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.moorebowenroad.com for the Gardiner family.