Joyce Ann Wheeler Sell

After graduation from Edison High School, San Antonio, in 1947, she attended Anderson College, Indiana. There she met Marion, the boy with a huge sense of humor, shared faith and passion for making a difference in young people's lives. They married in San Antonio and moved to the Rio Grande Valley, where she received her BA from Pan American University and began her 26-year career as an elementary school teacher in McAllen, Texas. She also taught in Midland and Austin, and made time to earn her Master's degree in teaching from Southwest Texas State University. She returned to teach in Midland in 1969, where she won several commendations before retiring in Lago Vista. She was a passionate and dedicated educator, who would recall many fond memories of her student’s years later. Joyce found incredible joy raising her two boys, and relished the company of her family and many dear friends. She also enjoyed sewing, playing the organ and piano, painting, traveling and genealogy. Devoted to her family, her grandchildren have fun memories of annual "granny camps" where she organized daily activities and crafts alongside Marion. A member of Memorial Christian Church in Midland, she was rooted in her faith in the Lord and prayer. She was a selfless and loving person, who never missed an opportunity to encourage others, teach or laugh.

We will miss your hugs and laughter, but your love is still with us. We are so grateful that God loaned you to us to enrich our lives.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Marion M. Sell of Midland, son Richard (Rick) Sell and wife Lyn of Houston, son Stephen (Steve) Sell of Dallas, grandchildren Taylor Sell and his wife Jennifer of Midland, Lauren Sell and husband Sam Enis of Austin, Stephanie Sell, Spencer Sell, and great granddaughter Caroline Sell of Midland.

A memorial service has been scheduled for today at 1:00pm at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel with Terry Rothermich officiating. Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Anderson University (1100 E. 5th Street, Anderson, IN), or the charity of your choice.