Joyce was born June 21st, 1933 in Spokane, Washington to Ruby and John Larimore. She grew up in Ellensburg, Washington with her parents and her one sibling, Betty (Barclift), where she attended school, including Central Washington State College where she studied English and Education and met the love of her life.
Joyce married Ellis Eugene Wells on July 19, 1953. They soon moved to Yakima where they would spend the next fifty-four years happily married.
Joyce was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. She was a proud and involved member of Broadway Christian Church in Yakima where she served as church secretary, and Sunday school teacher. Later in life she became a volunteer at Memorial Hospital.
Joyce was an accomplished seamstress and avid reader. She loved every holiday. It is said that to inherit the kingdom of heaven one has to become like a little child. Christmas brought out the child in our dear mother. Every winter she anticipated the first snow of the season and our annual trek into the hills to find a tree. Joyce also doted over her pet cats and dogs, who were undoubtedly among the most spoiled animals in the world! Her main love however, was her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, whom she supported and followed throughout their many and varied activities and adventures.
Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister, and one grandchild, Brian Kelley Jr. She is survived by her three children Cheryl Miller (Dennis), Suzan Kelley (Brian), and Scott Wells (Jennifer), twelve grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
The family would like to acknowledge and thank the loving staff at Ellen House in Yakima. Cindy, Lynette, Jenna, and Jacque embraced, encouraged, and comforted our sweet Joyce through her final days. You are truly angels!
A graveside service will be held Friday, November 8th at Terrace Heights Memorial Park at 2:00 pm.
Keith and Keith Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
