When I met Joyce, she was simply that to me—Joyce. She was unapologetically herself: funny, outgoing, always able to make me laugh. A beautiful and friendly soul through and through.
  She often invited me to join her on trips to various shops, where we’d discover the most beautiful items imaginable—and have a great time doing it. I suppose we all need a break from the demands of today’s fast-paced world, and those moments with her were just that: a joyful escape.
  While I may not have the many accomplishments of Dr. Giger, Joyce reminded me how extraordinary a so-called "regular" person can be. She encouraged me to continue writing in genres like drama and sci-fi, and she even expressed interest in trying her hand at writing as well—just for fun and a bit of a break.
  When she and her family moved away from Alabama, I was saddened. Although we only spoke once after she left, she remained on my mind and in my heart. Joyce had a way of leaving a lasting impression, not just on me, but on everyone who knew and loved her.

I will miss you dearly, sis. May you finally rest in peace.

WROTE WELL

Write well those words which best define
The culture in which we stay
Add to it all the sacrifice 
You gave along the way

For I am fortunate, as I go
Into the garden sent
To learn from you a better way
And reason for ascent

I only knew a moment before
That you have left this place
Nonetheless the path you made 
Allowed others in excellence trace 

                               Success 
 My Belated Condolences From My
        Wife And I, To Gus And Family 
              Pastor Gregory Johnson

Dr. Joyce was a lovely person. I met her through my mother, Dr. Susan Appel. Joyce had us stay at her gorgeous California home once and Ora was also there. I met her husband Gus and he was the best sport toting us all around. It was my first time to LA and we went to the St John store. Boy, Joyce was a fashionista and looked amazing in Barbie pink!  We also went to Tijuana. We were very glad to have Gus by our side then! Their love was palpable. Both of them have hearts of gold. I hate this world is missing such a lovely soul and that other lovely souls are missing her. I am glad she is not in pain. She was one of the strongest people I had ever met. Thanks for letting me a part of your world Joyce. Rest in peace and may your spirit and kindness live on. —Kristin Hardin, Susan’s daughter

Joyce Newman Giger, Living Legend, came to the UCLA School of Nursing as the Lulu Wolf Hassenplug Endowed Chair in 2005, appointed by Dean Marie Cowan. During her 8-year tenure, she was elected to serve as Chair of the Faculty.  She served as a mentor to many faculty and students. She was a respected leader with many well deserved accolades. I admired her grit, determination and grace under pressure. Joyce's charm and infectious laugh allowed to accomplish much during trying circumstances. I valued her support and her integrity as an academic colleague and friend. Her legacy will continue to inspire many. She was a beautiful person who made the world of nursing better. 
My profound sympathy to her family and friends.
Linda Sarna, Dean Emerita and Distinguished Professor
UCLA School of Nursing

Meeting with Joyce when she was inducted in 2022 as a Living Legend of the American Academy of Nursing!  So honored to share her table that night with her husband Gus and close friends

It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of my dear mentor, Dr. Joyce Newman Giger. I had the distinct honor of meeting Dr. Giger through the National Black Nurses Association, and from the very beginning, her warmth, brilliance, and generosity left an indelible mark on my personal and professional journey.

Working alongside her on the last two editions of her seminal work, Transcultural Nursing, was not only a privilege but a transformative experience. As I authored a chapter under her guidance, I was inspired by her depth of knowledge, unwavering commitment to culturally competent care, and her steadfast dedication to advancing the profession of nursing. Her legacy as a pioneer in transcultural nursing will continue to shape generations of nurses and healthcare providers around the world.

Dr. Giger was more than an academic giant—she was a compassionate leader, a tireless advocate, and a nurturing mentor who took the time to uplift others. I am profoundly grateful for the wisdom she shared with me and the opportunities she provided. Her influence on my career and on the field of nursing as a whole is immeasurable.

To her beloved husband, children, and colleagues, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the countless lives she touched and the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind. Dr. Giger’s light will continue to shine through all of us who were fortunate enough to know her.

With heartfelt sympathy
Larider Ruffin

My heart goes out to the Family of Dr. Joyce. We met in 2000 when I was a PhD student. She was presenting at a  conference, but she made time to talk with  me  and gave me guidance on the dissertation topic I had chosen and offered her contact information so we could  discuss my progress. I owe her many “Thanks.”  I will keep  you in  my prayers as I know this is a tragic loss and no one can assuage the loss of such an important member of your Family. May she Rest in Peace and  know that Jehovah God and his son Jesus Christ embraces you in your time of loss.
Lovingly a Sister in Spirit and Truth

What a GEM, an outstanding mentor, and champion of many! Joyce lovingly served as one of my sponsors for my induction into the American Academy of Nursing in 2000. Over the years we collaborated on many writing projects and presentations. She inspired me to become a national nurse scholar committed to advancing nursing science and eliminating health disparities. The Phrase " Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart"  is the epitome of how I feel about Dr. Joyce Newman Giger. 

My sincere condolences to Dr. Giger's family. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful person with so many. Blessings and peace to you.

I believe that God brings people into our lives for a reason. I met Dr. Giger in 2004 and my life as a budding scholar, researcher and leader in nursing was forever positively impacted.  Dr. Giger became my surrogate mom, mentor, friend, and colleague. The positive influence she had and will continue to have on my life is indelible. My story is not singular. There are many, many others in the nursing profession who have similar stories.

I will sorely miss you; but, your warrior sprit, resolute affection and the wonderful memories we made during our time together on this realm of existence will endure and sustain. Until we meet again -- Rest well.

I met Dr. Joyce Giger over 30 years ago at a nursing convention.  From that point forward we became close friends who talked to each other almost daily, attended nursing events together, conducted research together, published together and got to know each other's family and friends. She was like my sister and I will greatly miss her. She was not only a friend but also a true nursing icon who contributed much to others and the nursing profession.

I first met Dr. Joyce Newman Giger, EdD, APRN-BC, FAAN, as a nursing student over ten years ago here in the Los Angeles, CA area where I reside. During that time, she served as Dean of a local Los Angeles area nursing school and she was always willing to sow into developing nursing students. 

I knew Dr. Giger to be very insightful and  passionate about building community, as well as creating pathways for Black nurses who expressed an interest in professional publication, leadership development, and/or pursing a career in academia. She was one of my mentors, and I recall when she once shared insight on how to navigate politics within the nursing profession. 

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr.  Giger also  reviewed my DNP manuscript and offered advice for professional publication within a professional nursing journal. She was no-nonsense, always eager to help and was a straight shooter who was always supportive.

You have inspired so many and your legacy continues to live on! We love you! ❤️  

Rest in power,  

Dr. Stephanie A. Patterson, JD, DNP, MBA, MPA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, PHN

"Dr. Joyce Newman Giger's impact extended far beyond her groundbreaking work in transcultural nursing. For me, she was a beacon of guidance and unwavering support. Over the past eight years, she served as more than just a mentor; she was a second mother. Her wisdom illuminated my path as I pursued my doctorate, and her belief in me fueled my determination. I will forever cherish the countless hours of her patient instruction, the gentle encouragement that lifted me through challenging times, and the genuine warmth of her presence. Thank you, Dr. Giger, for your immeasurable contributions to my life and for being a constant source of love and inspiration. You will be deeply missed."

OBITUARY

Dr. Joyce Anne Newman Giger

August 8, 1950 – March 28, 2025

Eternal Valley Memorial Park & Mortuary

Show your support

Send Flowers

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Past Services

Funeral Service