Joy Elaine Gudge

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother whose life was defined by love, warmth and unwavering devotion to her family. Joy Elaine Gudge of DeWitt passed away on Monday, April 20th at the age of 83. She was born on May 31, 1942, in Lansing, Michigan and grew up spending summer weekends at the family cottage that her father built on Coldwater Lake in Weidman, Michigan. Joy’s daughters will forever remember the happiest childhood memories at the cottage.

She graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1960.

Joy spent her life working as a homemaker, raising her children and caring for her family. She was, above all, a caretaker in the truest sense. Her children were the center of her world, and she poured her heart into making sure they were safe, supported, and deeply loved every single day. Whether it was through kind words, quiet sacrifices, or simply being there when it mattered most, she had a way of making each child feel uniquely special. She will be remembered by many as the world’s best cookie baker--a title she earned not just for her skill, but for the love baked into every batch. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and joy, filled with the sweet smell of fresh cookies and the sound of laughter.

Family, friends, and neighbors alike knew that a visit with her often meant leaving with a full heart and a full plate. Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled: kindness, generosity, and the importance of caring for one another. Though she is no longer with us, her love remains in every cherished memory, every family tradition, and every cookie shared in her honor. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Joy is survived by her loving daughters: Terri Ward, Traci Crego, Trisha Hampton (Gilbert); Grandchildren: Corey Ward (Jackie), Robert Ward (Sierra), Jordan Ward, Alexandra Maus (Trevor), Abigail Hampton, Madelyn Crego; Great Grandchildren: Ava Douglas, Asunda, Ava Rose, Alyssa, Dylan, Colt, Lillian, Cooper, Gauge, Carter; Sister: Debby Chaney; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father Vernon Robinson, mother Barbara Robinson, husband Robert Gudge and brother Roger Robinson.

The family would like to thank McLaren Hospice for the care and compassion they showed Joy in her final days.

A memorial service will be held at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home (DeWitt Chapel) on Friday, May 1st at 11:00 am. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her honor to McLaren Hospice.