Joyce Isabella Mercurio

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joyce Isabella Mercurio, who passed away on October 13, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born in Albany, New York, Joyce was the third of four children born to the late Joseph J. Isabella Sr. and Anna Welter Isabella. During her formative years, she attended Catholic schools, where she was educated by the Sisters. Throughout her life, Joyce remained devoted to her faith and was a faithful communicant of St. Thomas More Catholic Church, where she regularly attended Saturday evening Mass.

Above all else, Joyce was a loving and devoted wife, mother, Nana, aunt, and friend. Her family was the center of her world, and she had a special way of making the people she loved feel cared for, supported, and cherished. She always put others before herself and showed her love through countless thoughtful gestures, unwavering support, and a willingness to do anything for the people who meant the most to her.

Joyce spent her early years in Albany before marrying the love of her life, Andrew. In 1975, they moved to Houston, Texas, where they built their life together and where Joyce made her home for the remainder of her years. Over the decades, she formed lasting friendships with the wonderful neighbors in the Bayou Bend subdivision, many of whom became more like family. Joyce loved being active and enjoyed participating in a variety of sports throughout the years, including softball, bowling, and, most recently, kickball. She was also a proud member of “The Wanna Be’s” Social Club, the Cirneco Dell’Etna Club of America, and the Fonteno Senior Group at Bayland Community Center. Joyce loved being around people, staying involved, and making memories with the many friends who enriched her life.

Joyce retired from Northwestern Mutual in 2015, allowing her to spend even more time with her beloved daughters and grandchildren, who were truly the pride and joy of her life. No matter how old her daughters became, Joyce never stopped being their mom. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for them. She was always there to cheer them on, attend their activities, lend a helping hand, or find a small but meaningful way to show how much she cared. Her grandchildren held an equally special place in her heart, and being their Nana was one of her greatest joys. Her love was constant, selfless, and unconditional, and the memories she created with her family will be treasured forever.

Joyce was predeceased by her beloved parents, Joseph J. Isabella Sr. and Anna Welter Isabella, and sister, Sharon Isabella. Joyce is survived by her sister, Carolyn Arentshorst; her loving husband of more than 50 years, Andrew P. Mercurio; her daughters, Jocelyn (Jarrett) Mercurio Jackson and Janelle (Byron) Lustgarten; and her cherished grandchildren, Joseph Mercurio, Kierstyn Sawka, Jacob Sawka, Isabella Lustgarten, Vivienne Lustgarten, and Nathan Lustgarten. She also leaves behind her best friend and maid of honor, Mary Jo Occhialino, of Albany, New York, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing her.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the family members and friends who prayed for Joyce, offered their support, and stood beside her throughout her long illness. She fought so hard to stay with us, demonstrating a strength and determination that were nothing short of extraordinary. To those who knew her, Joyce was one of the strongest people they had ever met.

And, of course, Joyce was a real character. She had a wonderful sense of humor, loved to laugh, and brought a unique spark to every room she entered. She was fiercely determined, resourceful, and capable of figuring out just about anything she set her mind to. Her spirit, her laughter, and her unmistakable personality made her unforgettable. She lived life in her own way, loved wholeheartedly, and left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Godspeed, Joyce. You gave so much love to so many, and that love was returned to you in countless ways. Though our hearts are broken, we will carry you with us always. We will hold close the memories, the laughter, the lessons, and all the little moments that made you who you were. Your love will continue to live on in your family and in everyone whose life you touched. You will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, we are asking for donations to a place very dear to Joyce's heart, the neighborhood Senior Education Center or the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-joyce-isabella-mercurio

Funeral and Memorial Services

Wake and Rosary

Thursday, October 29, 2026

6:00–8:00 p.m.

Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home (4525 Bissonnet St. Bellaire, TX 77401)

Funeral Mass

Friday, October 30, 2026

10:30 a.m.

St. Thomas More Catholic Church (10330 Hillcroft St. Houston, TX 77096)

A reception will follow the Funeral Mass.

Joyce will be laid to rest in Eden Valley, New York, at Immaculate Conception Cemetery.