Marlene Catherine Joyce, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025, in Virginia Beach, VA, at the age of 87. Born on April 8, 1938, in Canonsburg, PA, Marlene was a cherished presence in the lives of all who knew her.
Marlene attended Catholic school and graduated from St. Genevieve in Canonsburg, PA. Her dedication to her faith led her to teach Sunday School, where she inspired many young minds with her gentle guidance. Later, in Newport News, VA, Marlene and husband, Bill, opened the Photo's with Santa Shop in Newmarket Shopping Center. Then, not long after, Marlene became a Real Estate agent.
Marlene devoted her life to her family as a proud and dedicated homemaker, creating a warm and loving environment for her children and grandchildren. Her kitchen was the epicenter of family joy and happiness, where she always cooked the most delicious meals imaginable! Everyone, family and friends, alike, loved her cooking! Her entire home was always filled with laughter and love, a testament to her nurturing spirit.
In addition to caring for her family, Marlene had a passion for several hobbies. Her love for travel was inspired by having lived in Spain and Panama. She loved cross-country travel (mostly camping), visiting 47 of our 50 states and, also, included cruise trips to Alaska. She was an avid dice and Pinochle player and loved brain teasers such as crossword puzzles and Sudoku. She had a passion for reading. A woman of diverse interests, she also practiced karate, bowled with great enthusiasm, and often found tranquility in fishing trips.
Marlene's social nature and love for community brought her to participate actively in the Square Dance Club and Camping Club, where she forged lasting friendships and shared countless joyful moments.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 years, William E. Joyce; her parents, Michael and Bridget Donella; her infant twin sons; son, Donald "Brad" Crosson (wife: Cindy Crosson); Step Daughter: Bonnie Joyce; and her brothers, Michael, Charles, Richard, and Robert Donella.
Marlene leaves behind a loving family who will continue to cherish her memory: Her sister, Elizabeth Dobbin; her daughters, Lisa Rene' Cholak and Dawn Michele Schmitt; Sons: William Joyce Jr., Douglas Joyce (Gina); Her legacy lives on through her 18 grandchildren, Katie (Bryan), Jimbob (Beth), Jeremy (Candace), John (Kim), Alana "Holly" (Ty), Brianna (James), Christina (Travis), Braden (Monica), Brenna (Carl), Charles (Katie), Carissa (David), Kayla, Laura, Hailee (Kirwin), Morgan, Phillip, and Summer; and 18 great-grandchildren; and her beloved extended family: Edna Leonard & family; all of whom were blessed by her boundless love and wisdom.
Marlene's warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we remember her life, we find comfort in the enduring love she shared and the beautiful memories she left behind.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 10:00 am in Rosewood Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her name to St. Jude Children's Hospital.
