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Joyce Palmer Obituary

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Joyce P. Palmer

Beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. Joyce passed away peacefully with her loving family at her side on 12/28/2006 after a courageous battle against cancer.Born Joyce Paula Mazzella on 2/9/1938 to Delia (d) and Phillip Mazzella (d) in Newark, New Jersey. She graduated valedictorian from Bloomfield High School and attended Northwestern University where she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Journalism in 1959. While at Northwestern she met Geoffrey (Jeff) M. Palmer (d). They married in 1960 and settled in San Jose in 1963 where they raised their three children. A dedicated mother, Joyce felt great pride from her family's accomplishments.Joyce's desire to help people lead her to Santa Clara University where she earned her Masters of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985. In January of 1987 she received her Marriage Family Therapist License and opened a private counseling practice where she continued to see clients until her passing. She also worked as a counselor for the San Jose Unified School District and Pine Hill School. As a counseling supervisor at Almaden Valley and Teen & Family Counseling Centers and a Counseling Psychology Practicum Supervisor at Santa Clara University Joyce shared her passion and knowledge of counseling with her interns and students.Joyce was generous to family and friends, giving to charities and a fond supporter of the arts. Joyce's kind, warm, welcoming presence always led to a home full of family and friends. A renaissance woman, Joyce enjoyed traveling, especially to Italy, and season tickets to the ballet, theater, symphony, Giants and her beloved 49ers. Joyce's greatest thrill in life came with the births of her grandchildren and she loved nothing more than being a grandma and spending time with them.Joyce was a loving mother to her children Gail, Donna, Grant, and his wife Nancy and grandmother to Joya and Miles. Joyce was devoted to her brother Roger Mazzella, long time companion, Galvin Jackson, sister-in-law Lynne Palmer, nieces, nephews and cousins. Joyce had a loving and caring nature that endeared her as a mother figure to many. Joyce will be remembered for the love she gave to everyone and deeply missed by all.Private services to be held. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in memory of Joyce P. Palmer to:The Lung Cancer Alliance at www.lungcanceralliance.org or Almaden Valley Counseling Center 6529 Crown Blvd. #D San Jose, Ca. 95120.

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Published by San Jose Mercury News on Jan. 13, 2007.

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Pal saint

December 20, 2022

Joyce worked at thermotron for a year and Thomas bannach and Bo Bjarno asked her to spy on her co worker's so she quit thermotron and continue her career where doing good is enjoying the day.

Hil Sybesma

October 7, 2019

Hil sybesma At Thermotron worked with her. As she was only for a short Time as she was getting her Certificate And because she was a wonderful person it was time to spread it around.

p1saint saint

June 6, 2019

Yes I worked with Joyce in Campbell calif.

Michelle Burke

January 29, 2017

I was one of Joyce's clients from 1987-1989. She provided me with compassion and a sense of safety in a very hurtful, turbulent time. She even attended my graduation, and I 28 years later I still have the (now tattered) fleece Mickey Mouse blanket she gave me as a grad gift.

My heart goes out to her family and loved ones, 10 years after her passing. I hope it comforts them to know that Joyce saved my life, and inspired me to be the best person I could, even under the worst circumstances. It heartens me to know she left behind a legacy of kids and grandkids who I know will carry that value onward in their own lives. The world is a better place having had Joyce Palmer in it!

paul saint

September 27, 2013

was this the joyce palmer that worked briefly 1 year in 1983 for a company named thermotron as a secretary ?

Denise R.

July 3, 2013

It's been awhile since Joyce's passing. I still think of her often, and I still miss her. I know of others who loved Joyce, as well, and we still speak so very fondly of her. We speak of her sense of humor, and her compassion. Most often we speak about how we wish Joyce was still with us, and how we know what Joyce would say if she was. And we find much comfort in that. We share about how sometimes we are out and about and we see someone with a cute, short, blonde bobbed haircut, and we think it is her. I do feel Joyce with me, often, and I'm grateful for that. I loved her very much.

Adam Browne

June 12, 2011

Joyce was my counselor during the Pine Hill years when I was in junior high and a little of high school, and then off and on after that. I learned that she passed in 2008 but was not sure where this site was. My Dad who she knew passed away in 2009 (former Mayor Bob Browne of Milpitas, non-hodgskins lymphoma). A lot of stuff was going on at the time. I remember her tiny striped kitty that was so small. She was a no-nonsense, personable and smart individual which as a child I didn't really get, or respect entirely, but I was a teenager. She was the voice of the SELF class teachers. (1983-87). Now she has gone where no one has gone before. She is missed.

Also her Transformer name was Joyce-beak after the condor robot, Laserbeak. :)

Adam Mayer Browne, struggling science fiction writer, journalist, etc.

Pine Hill, class of 1989
Evergreen College, class of 94
San Jose State University, BA English, 98, BS, journalism, 08.

PS. I think I met Gail or Donna in 1986. Hi.

Andrea Tomassi

September 14, 2007

Dear Palmer Family,

I just wanted you to know that we continue to think of you all.

May God continue to bring you peace,

Love,

The Tomassi Family

Denise Falconio

May 22, 2007

I was shocked to find out about Joyces passing. My heart goes out
to her family and close friends. She was a very special lady!!!!
I saw Joyce from 1993-1999 off and on for my divorce. She help me out of co-dependency on others and help me to depend on myself emotionally and financially. I was recently trying to get hold of her to tell her about my re-marriage, which she helped convince me to put off until I was ready. She would be happy to know I waited 12 yrs. I will always be indebted to her for saving me. She will always be with me in my heart and soul. It was such an honor to have known her.

Andrea Tomassi

May 13, 2007

Joyce,

Remembering you today on this very special day and always.

Love,

Andrea

Andrea Tomassi

March 6, 2007

Joyce,

We find it very hard to not pick up the phone and call you. Memories of you come into my mind so often. As I scroll through my phone and your name shows up, I just can't hit the delete button, as my son talks of you and cries for you, As I'm struggling with a tough decision or just need to talk to you. It brings me such saddness that I just can't pick up the telephone and call you.

I then go to my peaceful place where I keep telling myself....it's not a forever thing! I WILL see you again, although maybe not soon enough for me, I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN!

We finally told Angelo of your death, on what just happened to be on your Birthday.

We miss you terribly and think of you often!

I love you.

Tom Major

January 19, 2007

Gail, Donna, Grant, Nancy, Joya and Miles,

How special to read about so many lives touched by your Mom/Grandma. She will live on in so many hearts.

With all of our deepest sympathy,
Tom, Julie, Andrew and Allison

Andrea Tomassi

January 17, 2007

Dear Gail, Donna & Grant,

I met your Mother somewhere around 1992. My husband and I were married only four years at that time. Joyce has helped us through many difficult times and sorrows over years. My husband and I have three kids and will be married 19 years this May. Joyce has played a huge part over the last 15 years in our marriage, our other personal relationships and those of our children.

Our eight year old son was especially close to your Mother. In his own words he wrote in a card to your Mother (mailed the day after New Years), that he felt she was part of his family. It saddens me that she was never able to read the card he wrote. I hope that somehow she already new.

I'm sure I don't have to tell you what a wonderful woman she was, you all know better than any of us. But I did want to share a few funny stories with you that she has shared with us over the years. They are truly examples of the unselfish, extrordinary, wonderful woman she will always be remembered as.

One particular week my son saw Joyce, she was so proud of his progress that week, she said she was going to do something for him she hadn't done in about five years. It was something called the "HAPPY DANCE". She expained that it was a dance she and her brother made up when they were little, and continued the tradition today whenever they saw each other. It consisted of a "whoo, whoo" and waiving her hands in the air like the 'hokey pokey' then shaking her hips from left to right. It was the funniest thing I ever saw. I remember my son fell to the ground in laughter. Joyce and I couldn't stop laughing either. That's exactly how she was. She was always able to get to down to his level and relate to him, it's just one of the traits that made her so unique.

On another occassion, she said she didn't have time that week to run to Target to re-supply her prize box. So she said she was going to do something she had never done for anyone before. She grabbed her purse and opened up her wallet and handed my son a single dollar bill. If I had only known then the significance of that single dollar bill, I would of had him keep it and never would have had him spend it.

Another story she told me was when she was really little. If I remember correctly, she said she was about three or four years old. She used to spend a lot of time with her cousins. On one particular occasion, they all had to walk down the stairs to the basement with sand pails full of coal for the heater. She said the boys would always tease her because her pail had the least amount to carry. She joked because she said she was so little and couldn't carry as much as they could, and they were so much older.

Donna, she was so excited about planning your 40th birthday party. It's all she talked about weeks before your birthday last year. She told me about the frames everyone received to put the pictures in everyone took with you that night. She said the theme would be purple as that was your favorite color.

Gail, your Mom always told me what a huge help you were to her and that she couldn't have done it without you.

Grant & Nancy, Joyce loved to talk about Joya and Miles. She told me about the little game she played with Joya each time she came over. It went something like this.....Grandma knocks on the door, "Grandma's here", so Joya runs and hides. Joyce comes in and says, "Where are you?", and as a little girl would say, not realizing she's giving away her hiding spot in her response...."Here I am Grandma, under the kitchen table, come find me". How precious! Whenever she talked about the kids her face would just light up. She would share all the cute little things the kids would say, I wish I could remember all of them, there were so many.

The article you wrote about your Mom in the Mercury News, defined her so well, as with the stories above, all can see that her family was the most important thing to her.

Your Mother touched so many lives. In just reading the entries in this guest book, you realize the significance. I cannot imagine the number of lives and difference she has made in the lives of the people and familes she has touched over the years.

Please know that her love, words of wisdom and life lessons taught shall live on in all who she has deeply touched. We are all truly blessed and honored to have known her.

Please accept our sympathy and know that our family continues to pray daily for each of you, that the Lord will wrap his tender hands around your family during this dificult time.

Should you ever need anything from us, please don't hesitate to conact me.

Respectfully,

Heather Gabel

January 16, 2007

I just learned of Joyce's passing over the weekend and was naturally saddened to hear the news. I met Joyce many years ago and enjoyed my time spent with her. I learned a lot about myself through my experiences with her and I will be eternally grateful. She was a wonderful person and I felt a real sense of warmth and genuine concern from her when I was dealing with my own struggles in life. I will always remember her for her sweet and caring nature. My thoughts and prayers are with the Palmer family. She is already missed.

Ann Smeltzer

January 16, 2007

Dear Gail, Donna, Grant, Nancy and Grandbabies,
You are all such a loving, living tribute to your mom and grandmother! Over the many years we have been friends and neighbors, your mother's kindness, sense of humor and genuine concern for others was so endearing to me and my family. She shared her wisdom and experience readily as a counselor and yet never stopped her own growth and development. Her life was extraordinary, full of thoughtful and proud reflection on rearing her dear family, increasing her own intellectual understanding and contributing that knowledge to others both personally and professionally. I really cherish the special times we shared and miss her presence on Larchwood Drive. It is comforting to know that through you she will continue to inspire goodness in our world. You are important members of our Larchwood community and I love you all.
In His love,
Ann Smeltzer

Francine Mauro

January 15, 2007

Donna, Gail and Grant,

I am so sorry to hear of your mom's passing. It has been so many years since I last saw your mom, but when I look back at those Junior High years when I used to go over your house, I remember how welcoming and kind your mom was.

Francine Mauro

Gail Foelsch

January 15, 2007

Gail (Donna, Grant & Nancy),

I was so sorry to hear about Joyce, she will be missed and remembered by many. The next HR show won't be the same without her in the box office and auditorium.

Love,
Gail

Michelle Bergholz

January 15, 2007

To the Palmer Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. My family and I will continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

I saw Joyce for 12 years. She was a mentor to me. She assisted me in so many ways and I am a better person today because she was my counselor. I will miss her dearly. She was quit a lady. Very compasionate, genuine, loving and always willing to open up her heart to those in need.

She will be remebered and always have a special place in so many people lives...

She loved you all so much and was so very proud of each and everyone of you.

Our thoughts are with you during this time....

Joetta McFadden

January 15, 2007

Donna,

My thoughts are with all of you right now and I will keep you in my prayers.

Love,
Joetta McFadden

Bill Cochrane, III

January 14, 2007

To the Palmer Family,

I was shocked to see Joyce's name in the obituaries today. She counseled me back in the mid-eighties.

Most recently I had thought about seeking her counsel again after my father (87) and cat (18) passed five days apart last January.

I called and left a message that I wanted to cancel my appointment since I felt I could deal with it on my own.

She was a wonderful, caring person, and will be missed.

My deepest condolences.

Sue Baker

January 14, 2007

I am so deeply sadden to hear of Joyce's passing. Joyce was my counselor for over 8 years. Through the years I have come to regard her as a dear friend. What a beautiful person. She was always so kind and compassionate with a wonderful sense of humor. She spoke often of you all with such deep love and pride, she would just beam when she told me stories of her grandbaby and expressed how wonderful the love in her life was.

She will be so deeply missed, I am blessed to have known her, she has touched my life forever.

My thoughts and prays are with you all through this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss.

Much love to you Joyce ~ I will carry your words with me always.

Bobby Jo Viksne

January 14, 2007

Our love and prayers of comfort to Donna, Gail, Grant, Nancy and babies. We have wonderful memories of Donna's birthday party and Joyce dancing with Joya! She was so proud of her family that day. I find comfort knowing our Mom's are together now and free from suffering.
Our memories are forever,
With Love,
Bobby Jo, John, Ryan and Chelsea

Claudia Barrett

January 14, 2007

Dear Donna and Family~

May the memories that are etched deep within your hearts bring comfort and laughter to you today, tomorrow and always...

With love,

Claudia

Tammi Rose

January 13, 2007

I am so sad to learn this news about Joyce. She was my supervising counselor at Santa Clara University in the early '90's. She loved her family so much and was a wonderful inspiration, personally and professionally.

Lisa Foley

January 13, 2007

I met Joyce back in 1987 while I was a student at Pine Hill. Joyce was such a wonderful and caring person. She meant a lot to all of us. She always had time to talk with us 'troubled teens' and her wisdom and warmth has stayed with me over the years. Joyce was quite a bright star in a dark sky and will never be forgotten by those whose lives she touched.
Always open, caring and honest...Joyce, it was an honor knowing you.

Paige Fundament

January 13, 2007

Dear Gail, Donna & Grant, (& Nancy)

Your mother was an incredible woman and you did such a superb job on the obtituary to describe her life, love and passion. What an accomplished woman that left us way, way too soon!

We love you all so very much and send our deepest sympathies to you at this difficult time.

Much Love, Paige & Family!

julia Intravia

January 13, 2007

Joyce was my daughters counslor at Booksin,She was always so patient and kind to her needs. Joyce was very instrimental in helping my daughter become the woman she is today. We are so sorry for your loss.

Karen Wolk

January 13, 2007

I met Joyce 23 years ago when I was 12 years old. She was my counselor but will also be remembered as my mentor and a friend to my family. She touched so many lives and will be missed.

My condolences to her family and friends.

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