Joyce Renee Smith Burgraff

“Seeing is believing.” For many, those words simply represent a motto. But for Joyce Renee Burgraff, it summarized in every way who she was. She was modest, quiet and observant, taking in everything around her and always thinking before acting. She was a realist, someone who was efficient and practical in everything she did. She was a friendly person who truly cared about those around her.

Joyce was born on March 30, 1980 at ST. Joseph Hospital in Omaha NE. She was the daughter of born to Doris Smith & Joey Webster later raised by Doris and Larry Matlock. Raised in Omaha, NE, she was brought up to be tolerant and trustworthy. As a child, she learned to be conscientious, responsible and punctual. These were all traits that she would carry with her through.

Growing up, Joyce was one of those children who didn't’t need to be in the center of a whirlwind of activity. She was content to entertain herself. Joyce was never pushy when it came to games and other activities, but rather, she was able to enjoy the pure fun these could bring. In just about everything she did as a child, Joyce was intent on pleasing both the adults and the other children around her. Joyce took part in a number of activities as a child. She took part in track. She was in Special Olympics. In her spare time she liked reading books.

Most folks would say that Joyce was shy until they got to know her. Those who were privileged to know her well learned that she was a solid, good friend. Joyce was reluctant to generalize about people, and she based her friendships on her personal experiences. Because of this, Joyce best trusted those people that she truly knew. She was concerned about how those around her felt, and she always seemed to uncover the positive side of people. She could relate to others and had the ability to see their point of view, to “walk a mile in their shoes,” as the saying goes. The friends that she made, Toya and Amber Lurks and Laka Jasper. Later in life, she became friends with Lakeisha, Shawn and Katrina.

Love can’t be defined but must be experienced. That was so true for Joyce. She was totally committed to David and maintained traditional ideals about marriage. It was as if Joyce naturally sensed her spouse’s needs, and accepted those feelings unconditionally. Although Joyce disliked conflict, she did not take flight from discord, but rather sought to preserve harmony even during the most trying times.

Joyce was a dedicated mother to her children. She had “old fashioned” parental values and could handle typical family conflicts in a fair and calm manner. Because she trusted emotions, Joyce was reluctant to force issues and used gentle persuasion to resolve situations. In this way she seemed to radiate an aura of warmth and caring to those around her, always thinking before acting. In addition, Joyce was a master planner. No matter how hectic life around her might be, she seemed to know and track everyone’s schedule. She focused on her children activities which included softball, cheer, basketball and school activities. Joyce was blessed with 3, Davion, Jacobe, Joslyn.

It is said that some people can’t see the forest for the trees. Joyce was able to focus on each individual tree, tending to its needs, thus making the forest stronger as a whole. Joyce was a trustworthy, pragmatic and sympathetic person. She was thorough and practical. Joyce Burgraff was very literal with her words. You always knew where you stood with Joyce. She will be missed.