Joyce Nadine Norsworthy

Joyce Norsworthy, age 92, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025 in Atwater.

Born on July 5, 1933, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, Joyce lived a long and meaningful life rooted in faith and family.

Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 years, James Roberto Norsworthy. Their loving relationship was a cornerstone of her life. She was also preceded by her eldest sister Betty Johnson; her parents, Delphia and William Andrew Freeman; and her in-laws, Robert Francis and Helen Louise Norsworthy.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Sandra and her husband Keith, Sharon and her husband Ken; and by her son Timothy and his wife Yvonne. Joyce's twin sister Loyce Harville survives her, along with Loyce;s husband Robert Harville. Also surviving is her sister-in-law Frances Friesen.

Joyce leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews residing across California, Oklahoma, and South Dakota who will cherish their memories of time spent with her.

A woman of strength and deep faith, Joyce found joy in reading her Bible and listening to gospel music. She even found herself joining the Sweet Adalines for a time as she loved to sing. Joyce was a gifted Sunday School teacher and for a time taught the little ones. Crocheting was her number one hobby - You can count yourself blessed to have received one of her handmade blankets. She had a never-ending passion for her trips to Hobby Lobby or Michaels to pick out the most perfect yarn.

Joyce also had a keen eye for home decorating and enjoyed creating a comfortable home. Being a July 5th baby, she loved the 4th of July and often teased that she was actually born on the 4th, however her birth certificate and twin sister stated differently. We are blessed that she was able to experience her last 4th of July just a month ago.

Her children often heard stories about her budding romance with their Dad, the love of her life and how they met at a peach farm in Le Grand, CA. James Robert was a shy guy, but boy he was smitten with that little redhead Joyce. To prove his affection, he just knew that tossing peaches her way would get her attention and she'd become his girlfriend. Well, it worked and shortly after his four-year Air Force tour, they became husband and wife.

We are grateful knowing Joyce had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. And on August 20th, Jesus welcomed her home.

The family will forever be indebted to Timothy and Yvonne Norsworthy, who were her caregivers for the last 18 months. The service for Joyce will be private and in the care of Lakewood Memorial Park, Hughson, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to be made to Bristol Hospice, 374 E. Yosemite Ave. Suite 200, Merced, CA 95340. (209) 384-1415