Joyce Elaine Irvin Obituary (1933

Joyce Elaine Irvin of Eaton Rapids, formerly of Homer and Marshall, died February 6, 2018 in Lansing. Joyce was born March 23, 1933 in Alma, MI to Lloyd and Vadis Wilson. She graduated from Lansing Eastern High in 1952. She married Herbert Irvin December 12, 1953 and they went off to Ferris State University where she worked while Herbert attended Ferris to get his degree. After he graduated from Ferris, they moved back to Lansing and Joyce received her LPN license from Sparrow Hospital. In 1960 the family moved to Marshall, MI and Joyce continued to work in the nursing field. She worked about 15 years in the emergency department at Oaklawn Hospital then as the nurse for Dr. James Dobbins till she retired in 1986. The family spent many years traveling and camping with friends. In 1988 Joyce and Herb purchased a fifth wheel with the goal of visiting every state. Joyce maintained a diary to document their travels. They completed their journey in three years on the road. They made it to all 48 continental states. They enjoyed an Alaskan cruise and a European tour after their road trip. They were able to visit many family and friends in their travels as well as make new friends along the way. They settled in Largo, FL during the winter and summered in Homer, MI. Joyce loved having her grandchildren in the summer. The grandchildren have fond memories of camping, bonfires and Michigan Adventure. Joyce loved to entertain, take people sightseeing, and to play cards with friends and family. She will be remembered most for being a loving and caring mother, wife, grandmother and aunt, as well as a very compassionate and knowledgeable nurse for her patients and doctors. Joyce was preceded in death by her husband Herbert, parents; Lloyd and Vadis. She is survived by three children, Jerry (Cindy) Irvin of Homer, Vanette Irvin of Aiken, South Carolina, and Londa Irvin of Eaton Rapids; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren; many nephews and nieces Memorial service will be held 3:00pm Sunday, May 27th at First Baptist Church, 9220 Kinneville Rd., Eaton Rapids, visitation beginning at 2:00, Dinner immediately following service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her name to Helping Hands Respite Care, known to Joyce and her family as ALFA.