Joy Ann (Parducci) Shoemaker

Born in East Chicago, Indiana, she was the daughter of the late Hugh and Eva Parducci. Joy was the beloved wife of and preceded in death by Charles Shoemaker. She was the loving mother of and is survived by three daughters and one son: Eve Sweeney, Deirdre Samson, Lauren Siebert, and Charley Shoemaker. Her children will miss her tremendously, as will her surviving 9 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Throughout her life, Joy was an accomplished pianist. Described as a child prodigy, she began her piano training at the age of four. She revealed her extraordinary talent by giving a full-length recital at age nine. When she was 11, she appeared as soloist with the Chicago Symphony. At 14, she captured a superior rating in the Chicagoland Music Festival, and received the honor of performing in Soldier Field.

She went on to study classical piano at Indiana University, where she was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. She was an excellent student and hosted a radio show called “Magic Music Box,” a musical appreciation program for children. She was a featured soloist with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, the National Symphony in Washington D.C., and many other notable performances.

Following her extensive performance and piano teaching experience, Joy returned to college mid-career to become a Registered Nurse. She retired from Community Hospital in Indianapolis.

Joy was a kind, loving, fun and generous person who loved life and cherished time with family and friends. Over the years, Joy shared her musical talents as an accompanist with several musical groups. She also enjoyed playing bridge and hosting her book club and dinner club. She was an avid and competitive tennis player. Joy had a beautiful smile and a delightful sense of humor.

Her constant priority was her family. Joy set a shining example as a devoted wife and mother, offering boundless love and care to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

A private memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church in Zionsville, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joy’s name may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

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