Joyce Burlison

Joyce Aileen Burlison, age 93, of Brookfield Township, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. She was born on October 16, 1932, in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Frank and Violet (Weatherby) Rockafellow.
Joyce grew up on her family’s farm in Aurelius Township, where she attended a one-room schoolhouse before later earning her high school diploma from Olivet High School. She spent much of her career in food service, working for many years with Big Boy Restaurants at their Charlotte, Holt, and Frandor locations. She also worked at the IGA Deli and for Crown Camper, both in Charlotte.
Above all, Joyce’s greatest calling was that of a devoted mother and homemaker. She lovingly raised her six children and cared deeply for her home and family. Joyce had a passion for gardening, and her green thumb produced beautiful flowers and abundant vegetables, many of which she enjoyed canning and sharing. She was also a gifted crafter who spent countless hours knitting, quilting, crocheting, and tatting intricate pieces for her loved ones.
Joyce is survived by her children, Harvey Burlison, Connie Wheeler, and Christine Burgess; brothers, Keith (Carol) Rockafellow and Robert Rockafellow; and special great-grandchildren, Troy and Dylan Wheeler, and Jaelynn Ledesma, along with many other grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, James Burlison; children, Jeffrey Burlison, Frank Burlison, and James Burlison; and grandchildren, Candy Burlison and Jessica Wheeler.
Visitation will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Joyce will be laid to rest on Tuesday at 10:00 AM at East Lawn Memory Gardens in Okemos.
Those wishing to share memories or leave online condolences may do so at www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com