William Joseph Joyce Jr.

William Joseph Joyce, Jr., passed away peacefully at home at the age of 82, surrounded by the love of his family and leaving behind a legacy of service, integrity, adventure, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Bill's childhood was shaped by the summers he cherished in Ocean City, New Jersey. Those early years fostered a lifelong love of the water, sports, and family traditions that would remain close to his heart throughout his life.

A gifted athlete, Bill attended St. Francis University, where he played hockey, soccer, and rowed crew. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy, embarking on a distinguished career as a helicopter pilot and highly decorated officer.

During his 22 years of service to our country, Bill earned his “wings of gold,” was qualified in both surface and air warfare, and served across the country and around the world, with duty assignments in California, Italy, Spain, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Florida, Louisiana, and Virginia. Among his many Naval career highlights, Bill flew three tours of duty executing combat support and vertical replenishment missions for the Pacific Fleet during the Vietnam War, served as the Commissioning Coordinator of the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), served as the Executive Officer of Naval Support Activity New Orleans, and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal and Gold Star, the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat Valor, the Meritorious Unit Commendation (5 Awards), and the Navy Achievement Medal. His career was filled with extraordinary experiences and countless stories, but he often casually described the most important attribute of a pilot and military leader as “steady hands and steel blue eyes”—a fitting tribute to the calm confidence, skill, and leadership he brought to every mission.

Bill was also a beloved adopted native son of New Orleans and embraced its deep and rich history and traditions. Following his Navy retirement, Bill continued his service to his community and country through numerous roles in civic leadership, including as President of the Greater New Orleans Council of the Navy League of the United States and membership across many Carnival organizations and social clubs. Guided by a lifelong curiosity and love of learning, Bill earned his law degree from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law following his Navy retirement and pursued a successful 35-year-long second career as a maritime-aviation attorney with Jones Walker LLP, where he was respected for his wisdom, professionalism, and dedication to his clients and colleagues.

While Bill's military and legal careers were marked by extraordinary accomplishments and unforgettable stories, the chapters he treasured most were those written with his family and friends. He found his greatest joy as a devoted and loving husband, father, and Pop-Pop. Whether sharing stories around the dinner table, offering thoughtful advice, celebrating life's milestones, or simply spending time together, he created lasting memories and served as an example that will be cherished for generations.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Lydia Campanella Joyce, with whom he shared 48 devoted years of marriage. He also leaves behind his loving daughters, Colleen Joyce Martin (Eric), Angela Joyce Mayeux (Shawn), Jeanne-Marie Joyce Shelton (Chase), and Lillie Joyce Chastant (Paul). He was a proud and devoted Pop-Pop to Rachel and Sarah Martin, William and Theodore “Teddy” Mayeux, Eleanor and Ainsley Shelton, and Mary Ruth “Ruthie” Chastant, each of whom brought immeasurable pride and happiness to his life. He is also survived by his sisters, Joanne Joyce Walsh (Jack) and Janice Joyce Facciolo (Jack).

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Joseph Joyce and Mary Agnes Joyce; his daughter, Kathleen; his brother, Kenneth Joyce; and his sister, Mary Beth Joyce Owens.

Bill will be laid to his eternal rest at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Florida, where he first received his “earthly wings,” and nearby his other great love, Pensacola Beach. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 15, 2026, at the Southern Yacht Club in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Bill will be remembered for his servant leadership, quiet strength, quick wit, steadfast character, unwavering friendship, and generous heart. Whether in the cockpit, the courtroom, or at home with his family, he led with courage, humility, and compassion. His life was one of service—to his country, his profession, and above all, to the people he loved. His stories will continue to be told, his lessons remembered, and his love carried forward by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Fair winds and following seas. We have the watch.