Joyce B. Ruzyla

Joyce Ruzyla, born in 1944 in Manhattan, passed away on June 26, 2025, in Hollywood, Florida. She will be remembered most for her extraordinary empathy — a quality that touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Family, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers often turned to Joyce in times of need, instinctively drawn to the warmth of her listening ear and the wisdom of her words. Generous, caring, loyal, witty, intelligent; these words only begin to describe the mother, grandmother, wife, and friend she was. Her glorious laugh could be heard for miles.

Joyce genuinely absorbed, respected, and deeply felt what others were going through. Her compassion was evident to anyone who opened up to her. They knew, without question, that her attention was entirely theirs — and that her input came from a place of sincerity, care, and deep emotional presence.

Above all else, Joyce loved and adored her family. She is survived by her two daughters, Alexandra (Zan) and Alayne (Laynie); her four beloved grandchildren, Michael, Jordanna, Brock, and Trent; and her sons-in-law, Mark and John. Her home, which she lived in for nearly five decades, was the heart of countless family gatherings — a place where love, laughter, and tradition flourished under her nurturing presence.

Joyce was married to her beloved husband, Larry, for over 40 years until his passing in 2010. Together, they raised and supported a beautiful family, sharing a life full of devotion and partnership. Joyce loved retelling their love story — from their first meeting at Hofstra University in New York, through Larry’s service in the Army during the Vietnam War, to their move to Florida to build a life and raise their children. Their story was one of commitment, courage, and deep affection — one she carried with her always.

She was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Andrea, who never left her heart. The memory of Andrea remained an ever-present part of Joyce’s life, and her love for her daughter endured with quiet strength and grace. Joyce also spoke often of her treasured parents, Leah and Meyer, brother Bob, and best friends she held dear.

Joyce spent many years working at Broward College’s South Campus as an administrative assistant to the dean of student affairs. Her time there was marked by the meaningful, long-lasting friendships she formed with her colleagues and supervisors. Her humor, warmth, reliability, and ability to connect with others left a lasting impression on those she worked alongside.

In retirement, Joyce enjoyed volunteering at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital followed by her grandchildren’s elementary school even after they had moved on to higher grades. She found joy in staying engaged with her family and other loved ones. Over the years, her interests included traveling (especially cruising and visiting close friends), playing the slot machines, canasta, weekly hair appointments, and dining out with friends and family. She delighted in life’s simple pleasures and the company of those she loved.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 2nd from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Fred Hunters Funeral Home, 6301 Taft St., Hollywood.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Smile Train: https://www.smiletrain.org/take-action.