Joyce Anita Jones

Raised in South Bend, Indiana, Joyce grew up with an older sister and brother and a younger brother, and she later outlived them all. Even with severe hearing loss in one ear, she played clarinet in high school—an early reflection of the steady determination that would mark her life. High school was her highest level of education, yet her diligence and capability carried her confidently into adulthood.

In early May of 1954, Joyce married Jim, beginning a devoted partnership that lasted 67 years. Together they welcomed two sons: Randy L., born in 1956, who passed in 2011, and Larry W., born in 1959. Joyce’s love for her family was evident in the way she showed up—steadfastly, thoughtfully, and with a generous spirit.

Joyce worked hard throughout her years, holding various bookkeeping and office positions until retirement. In time, she found special enjoyment in the quieter rhythms of retirement, especially the summer months spent in her and Jim’s camping trailer, kept parked in an RV park in Cottonwood.

A faithful presence in her church throughout her life, Joyce was an active volunteer who consistently looked for ways to serve. She was known for being well liked and highly regarded in both church and community, and for a sincere willingness to help whenever help was needed. She also simply enjoyed talking and visiting with people—making others feel noticed, heard, and valued.

Joyce’s life was shaped by faith and anchored by quiet strength. Her words offered reassurance in difficult moments: “We’ll be alright, we’ll make it through this. God is faithful.” Her confidence was also reflected in the Scripture she held close: “I have strength for all things in Christ. Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him. Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]. - Philippians 4:13”

Joyce is remembered with gratitude for the life she lived and the care she gave—by lifelong close friends, mentors, pastors, and family. Her legacy is one of faithful service, steady generosity, and a love that quietly strengthened the lives around her.

A Memorial Service will be held at Phoenix Memorial Park and Mortuary, 200 West Beardsley Road, Phoenix, AZ 85027, US, on September 29, 2026, from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. A Reception will follow at the same location on September 29, 2026, from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm.