Joyce Marie Allen

Joyce Marie Allen, born on February 8, 1937, in Mason, Michigan, to Roscoe and Merna Arnold. On November 10, 2023, she peacefully departed this life and passed into the arms of Jesus while surrounded by her family. She was a woman of strength, kindness, and unwavering love.

Joyce graduated from the Michigan School for the Deaf in Flint, Michigan, and embarked on a journey of love and dedication. On October 27, 1956, she married the love of her life, Harley Jay Allen, in Dansville, Michigan. Their union was a beautiful example of enduring love and steadfast faith.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Joyce found joy in her family. She will be dearly missed by her husband of 67 years, Harley. Her legacy extends through her daughters, Wendy (David) Lilly and Michelle (Paul) Strom, and her grandchildren Steven (Katherine) Lilly, Michael (Diana) Lilly, Nathan (Kristin) Lilly, Aaron (Kaitlyn) Lilly, Kendra (Nathan) Schick, Rachel Lilly, Kristin (Joshua) Brandt, and Lindsey Strom. Her love continues to flourish through her great-grandchildren: Isaac, Brianna, Gabriella, Presley, Oaklynn, Andrew, Roczen, Scarlett, Allison, and Gentry.

Joyce is further survived by her sister and brother, Janet Thompson-Irey, and Philip (Beverly) Arnold and sisters-in-law Connie Hess, Linda Whitworth, Julaine Allen, and Kay Allen.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Geraldine Battige and nieces Kimberly, Amy and Colleen.

Joyce's dedication also extended to her work. After 39 years of hard work for the Ingham County Register of Deeds, she retired in March of 1996. Her passion for words and puzzles was a testament to her sharp mind and creative spirit.

Generous and kind-hearted, Joyce enjoyed crocheting baby blankets for her extended family, Christmas ornaments for family and friends, and shared her wisdom selflessly. She was a longtime member of Capital City Baptist Church where she was a beloved Sunday School teacher for deaf children and was active in various deaf ministries, impacting the lives of many.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Joyce's life at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes Mason Chapel on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. Visitation will begin at 10 am, followed by the funeral service at 11 am. Joyce will be laid to rest at Maple Grove Cemetery.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the McLaren Hospice staff and individuals who provided comfort and care during her final days, especially Breann, Salina, Teri, Tracy, and Kim.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Capital City Baptist Deaf Department or McLaren Hospice, honoring Joyce's passion for education and compassionate care.

Joyce will be dearly missed but will live on in the hearts and memories of all those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.