Joyce was born May 14, 1937 to William Burgess White and Vera Richardson in Murray, Utah. She loved her hometown and was an active member of her community. She met Ray Alvey, the love of her life, on a blind date to Lagoon and fell instantly in love. They were married on February 29, 1955 and danced together for 60 years. Their life included nine children, with homes in Murray, South Jordan, Sandy and Highland.
Joyce was a talented singer, dancer, actress, cook, seamstress, hostess, author, teacher, mentor, leader…what couldn’t she do? Joyce was the life of the party. She knew how to celebrate what is important. She had a natural ability to bring people together, she not only accepted but encouraged diversity to include all unconditionally. Joyce truly appreciated and celebrated the women in her life. She treasured her girlfriends.
Joyce lived her life serving others as an advocate for children and families. She was a distinguished member of the Utah PTA starting as a room mother, promoted to school President, to State President and then served at the National level where she proudly represented her home state. She pioneered and lobbied for numerous programs statewide which are still active today. She was Mother Goose and shared rhymes with children realizing the importance of literacy and the need to ‘Read to your Child 20 Minutes a Day’.
Joyce was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She served in every capacity. Her love for the Savior was undeniable. She adored Eliza R. Snow and portrayed her in ‘real life’ performance to church members. Her Christ like love and charity reached many lives, beyond her family. She was inspired and touched the hearts of all she served.
Joyce's life encompassed raising a family which was her priority and sole purpose. Her grandchildren were the light of her life. She was always there no matter what for each individually. She was a fun Grams creating priceless memories sitting down to tea, bubble baths, snuggly sleepovers, and gave the best hugs. She exemplified what it means to be a loving mother and grandmother and we were so blessed to have her as our own. Joyce lived a beautiful full life. She did what she was sent here on earth to do and she is now at peace with her loved ones and sweet Ray. Our Family Can Be Forever!
Joyce is survived by her children Jeff [Jill], Michael, Mark [Joan], M. Chad [Nan], Amie Jo, Tim [Lisa], Kurt [Eileen], Kristopher, and Sariah [Bill] Henry. She was blessed with 28 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren and 7 angels on the way. She is also survived by two siblings, Gordon B. White and Kathy Barton.
The family would like to thank Millcreek Hospice and Sandy Health and Rehab for their loving care.
In lieu of flowers, Joyce's family will be collecting books for donation in her memory.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 6th at 11:00 a.m. at the Highland Ward, 932 W. Green Oaks Drive in Murray, Utah. A viewing will be held an hour prior to services and on Thursday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the same location. Interment will be at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park South Valley.
