Joyce Ann Pressly

As the daughter of Julia Balog, a first generation Hungarian-American, and Fred Mapstone, a Purple Heart recipient in WW2, Joyce Ann Mapstone learned at an early age the critical value of inclusion and service. These fundamental tenants would be powerful influences for the remainder of her life. And, fortunately, influence the lives of her children and grandchildren.

Born in New York City, Joyce spent her youth in Youngstown, Ohio before moving to Tampa, Florida in 1945. The Sunshine State would be her home for the next 77 years, however, Joyce comported herself with the no-nonsense aura of a native New Yorker and communicated with a "plain-speaking" Midwestern directness – reminiscent of her political hero, President Harry S. Truman.

Joyce contributed to the Plant High School Class of 1955 through the National Honor Society, Archery Club, and as a Florida Girls State selection. She returned to Ohio for her collegiate experience beginning a life-long love of Ohio State football and its fiery Coach Woody Hayes. However, on a return visit to Tampa, the Buckeyes ran into some tough competition when a friend arranged a blind date for Joyce with Herb Pressly.

Joyce and Herb married in 1959 and moved to Tallahassee in 1961. Joyce thrived in her eventual starring role as a mother of three. At a young age, Joyce and Herb built their dream house and for Joyce, 2314 Kilkenny West represented a deeply imbedded sense of place, permanence, and pride. Somehow, she knew that special lot filled with tall Florida pines and beautiful live oak trees would be her family's safe haven for the next fifty years.

In Tallahassee, with her intellectual and personal gifts, Joyce had many options toward which to focus her drive and passion. She chose family and community. Not satisfied with traditional PTA leadership engagement, Joyce's heart gravitated toward those who were most in need. In a time when many struggled with the basics such as food, transportation, and encouragement - Joyce made it personal. She impacted countless lives in Tallahassee through her individual efforts. She didn't need an official title or committee to make a difference in a young person's life. She simply showed up with food or clothing or a backpack and a hug.

Joyce saw the potential in everyone – regardless of race, class, or background – even if they didn't see it in themselves. Her commitment to personally engage in the individual lives of countless young people in the Tallahassee community is her defining legacy. As a role model in this regard, "Memaw's" impact is tangibly noted in the way her eight grandchildren have been drawn to service in their adult lives. She was extremely proud her grandchildren continue to serve those who are most in need.

As an outlet for her enduring curiosity, Joyce loved to travel with her family across the country and around the world. She intricately researched and planned multiple coast-to-coast family excursions to National Parks, baseball stadiums, and countless Holiday Inns. From month-long excursions "Out West" to spontaneous, "Oh my, Pete Rose and the Big Red Machine are in Atlanta. Get in the car!" outings, Memaw was always planning our next adventure, which ultimately included 28 countries and a trip behind the Iron Curtain to connect with her Hungarian heritage.

Throughout her life, Joyce continued to read, learn, and share her knowledge with a unique energy, which can't be replaced. But her quiet acts of love and inspiring personal strength will remain with us forever.

Funeral services will be at 11am on Sunday, June 5, at Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home, 700 Timberlane Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32312.

The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please join us in honoring Joyce Pressly by donating to the New York Public Library Memorial Gift Fund whose mission is to inspire lifelong learning, advance knowledge, and strengthen our communities.

https://secure.nypl.org/site/Donation2?7843.donation=form1&df_id=7843&mfc_pref=T&s_src=FRWXXHM_QWDTN&_ga=2.13758839.1333970510.1654106535-1186433374.1650580629