Joyce Ferne Williams

Joyce F. (Brady) Williams, age 78, of Traverse City passed away Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at the Traverse Victorian Senior Living Inn. She was born April 3, 1938 in Roscommon to Willard and Ferne (Silsby) Williams.

Joyce was married to the late David S. Brady from 1958 to 1981. From that union two children, Mark and Aliess, were born.

Joyce graduated from Roscommon High School and went on to the University of Michigan where she received her bachelor’s degree in education. While teaching, she pursued and earned her Master’s degree as well. Joyce worked as an elementary teacher for TCAPS for 30 years; working mostly at Old Mission Elementary and Norris Elementary. After retirement, Joyce started her own business, Temporary Nanny; which she ran for over 8 years. Joyce was a member of Central United Methodist Church and she was very active in the Traverse City Civic Players in the 70’s and 80’s. She sang Soprano and was a part of the Sweet Adeline’s. In her spare time, Joyce loved gardening, everything from flowers to food. She also enjoyed biking, cross country skiing, camping and sailing. Joyce was an advocate for people. She believed that everyone could succeed and she loved to encourage them towards their goals. She loved her family and her students. She was a beacon of resilience, strength, and joy.

Joyce is survived by her children: Mark Brady of Hood River, OR, Aliess (Brady) Kime and son-in-law Peter Kime of Skokie, IL; sister: Anne (Williams) Rackerby and brother-in-law Tom Rackerby of Lake Tahoe, NV. Besides her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her former husband, David Brady.

A memorial service is planned for later summer at Central United Methodist Church.

Memorial contributions in Joyce’s name may be directed to Father Fred Foundation, the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, or Central united Methodist Church.

Arrangements were entrusted to Covell Funeral Home of Traverse City.