Joyce Ann Moore, age 74, suffered a hemorrhagic stroke on Tuesday, August 24th after returning home from a wonderful vacation at her son and daughter-in-law's home. Having survived two previous strokes, we held out hope that she would once again make a full recovery. Sadly, Joyce never regained consciousness, and after an 11-day valiant fight at St. Luke's Hospital and subsequent transfer to the Kansas City Hospice house, Joyce peacefully passed away on Saturday, September 4th surrounded by her family.
Joyce was born November 7th, 1946 at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas to Arthur and Mary Wheatley. Just 19-months later, Joyce met her forever best friend, her little sis, Freda Lee. Her early years were filled with love, growing up on the same street as her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. At the age of 17, Joyce met and fell in love with Doug Moore. Three years later they were married, and on June 23rd celebrated their 54th anniversary. Their family grew over the years to include two children, daughter, Kelly Lynn and son, Shawn Douglas.
Joyce was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother first and foremost. She treasured her family and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Mimi to her one and only grandson, Taylor. Joyce, just like her name, was full of JOY! She was the life of the party, and loved to dance and talk with people. She loved unconditionally and was loved by all who knew her. Joyce never met a stranger, you were an instant friend. She had a smile as big as her heart, and if you needed help, she was right there to pitch in.
Like with everything she did in life, Joyce went above and beyond to serve others and developed a dedicated clientele over her 35-year career as a beautician. One of her most notable qualities was her desire to care for her elderly customers and oftentimes traveled to their homes when they were unable to come to the salon. Not only did she have a talent for styling hair, she made you feel special because of the time and attention she put forth when sitting in her chair.
Gardening was Joyce's passion. Her yard contained a variety of colorful blooms and the inside of her home was the same with no shortage of oxygen! People often asked her secret which she shared with everyone... Talk to your flowers and tell them how beautiful they are. One of her greatest joys was sharing her flowers and knowledge of them with her family, neighbors and friends. Joyce often said she felt closest to God in her garden, and it was there that she spent much of her time in reflection and gratitude.
Joyce also enjoyed shopping and lunch dates with her friends, visiting family in Reno, a mean game of Chicken Foot and her favorite Mexican food with a good margarita!
Joyce is survived by her husband, Doug Moore, daughter Kelly Rufo (Paul), son Shawn Moore (Monica), grandson Taylor Carnes, sister Freda Hansen (Dave), brother-in-law Walter Moore (Marva), sister-in-law Ida Moore-Morris,uncle Lester Wheatley and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Joyce Ann was special to so many people... her memory will bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
A visitation will be held from 1:00 - 2:15 on Friday, September 10th, at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home followed by the funeral services at 2:15 pm and burial at Mount Moriah Cemetery, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131.
Please note, per Kansas City, Missouri mandate, masks are required.
