Joyce Hejl

Joyce was born during the Great Depression on November 15, 1931, in Holland, Texas to J. Herbert and Erna Eckerman Howe. She was raised an only child after the death of her three-day old baby brother. It was very unusual during those times to be a single child. Because of that, she was brought up to be a very independent young woman.

Joyce was a 1949 graduate of Holland High School, where she played basketball, was drum major, and Valedictorian of her class. After high school, Joyce attended the Scott and White School of Nursing and graduated with honors in 1952. While a student nurse, she met her future husband, Amos J. “Andy” Hejl. They were married December 6, 1952, at the First Baptist Church in Holland, TX. They were blessed with two daughters, Pamela and Sandra.

All her young life Joyce felt God calling her to be a nurse, and she devoted 44 years of her life doing just that. She was passionate about her job and loved what she worked so hard to attain. Her long career began and ended at Scott and White Hospital. Most of her nursing years were spent teaching diabetic patients which led to her assisting in the creation of the Diabetic Education Center, where she worked until her retirement in 1996. Joyce wanted someone to follow in her footsteps so badly and become a nurse. Fortunately, her legacy will be carried on by her great-granddaughter who has found that same passion for nursing.

A devoted member of First Baptist Church in Temple for 77 years, Joyce faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher, and as a member of Women on Missions. Being involved in the Naomi Sunday School class was one of her greatest joys. She enjoyed the times she would serve as the substitute teacher and would spend many hours in the Word preparing to teach the lesson of the week.

Joyce enjoyed reading, giving book reviews, and devotionals. Spending time with her friends and participating in the Avolonte Study Club, and Housekeepers Club filled her spare time. However, everyone knew not to make plans for her on a Friday afternoon, as that was when she had her weekly appointment with her hair stylist.

Many happy memories were made at the South Forty Ranch where she and Andy entertained friends and family. Reunions, birthday parties, church retreats, and sleepovers, were only a few of the many events she hosted. Spring fishing with Andy and friends at Sulphur Springs Fishing Camp was always something she looked forward to. Adding to the sweet memories were many summers vacations spent in the mountains of Red River, New Mexico with family and friends.

Joyce was known as feisty, independent, smart, spunky, a lover of Jesus, a loving friend, and the family matriarch. Now she is rejoicing in Heaven with those she loved who went before her.

Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters Pam Cummings and husband Rick of Holland, TX, Sandra Hensley-Mikeska and husband Russell of Temple, TX; three grandchildren, Christy Powell and husband Brock of Little River/Academy, TX, Craig Cummings of Breckenridge, CO, and Daniel Hensley and wife Whitney of Austin TX; three great grandchildren, Amelia Powell, Westbrook Hensley; and Whitaker Hensley. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents and an infant brother.

Visitation will be at Scanio Harper Funeral Home in Temple, TX, on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 5:00-6:00 pm. A private family graveside service will be on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.

Memorials in her name may be made to the UMHB College of Nursing.

University of Mary Hardin Baylor

Advancement Department

900 College Street

Belton, TX. 76513