Joyce Lee Cullen

1944 - 2025

Joyce Lee Cullen, born August 28, 1944, in Chicago, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, surrounded by her family. Joyce lived a life defined by devotion-to her family, her faith, and her community-and she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and unwavering generosity and service.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Helen and Fred Angeletti; her brothers, Fred and John Angeletti; and her husband, Thomas Cullen, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and partnership. She is survived by her children, Paul Cullen (Beth), Thomas Cullen (April), and Jacqueline Scanlan; and her cherished grandchildren, Hannah Cullen, Hailey Cullen, Megan Cullen, Cassidy Scanlan, and Claire Cullen, all of whom brought immense joy and pride into her life.

A passionate reader from an early age, Joyce found comfort, curiosity, and wonder within the pages of her favorite books. Her love of literature inspired her to earn a degree in Library Science from Northern Illinois University and to begin a fulfilling career as a librarian at Gower Middle School. She approached her work with enthusiasm and care, helping generations of young readers discover stories that would shape their lives just as books had shaped hers. Joyce also spent countless hours on the tennis court with her husband and her kids.

Quilting was one of Joyce's greatest passions-an art form through which she expressed her creativity, patience, and love. Her beautifully crafted quilts warmed countless homes and hearts, each one stitched with intention and generosity. She was also known for her remarkable collection of salt and pepper shakers and stamps, and she remained famously unbeatable at Uno and Monopoly, a fact her family will fondly remember during every future game. Joyce also spent time with her close knit friend group, notoriously known as "The Mob".

Joyce possessed a special compassion for those in need. She often visited neighborhood garage sales, purchasing clothing to donate to people experiencing homelessness, ensuring they had warmth, comfort, and dignity. Quiet acts of service defined her life as much as the larger ones. She also sewed more than 300 handmade dresses for children in Uganda-another profound example of her love for serving others.

Joyce's faith was the foundation of everything she did. A devoted member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, she dedicated much of her life to serving God and others through the Community of Catholic Women, American Red Cross and People Helping People. Her relationship with God was unwavering-steady, humble, and deeply rooted in gratitude. She lived her faith not only through prayer, but through action, kindness, and a constant willingness to lift others up.

Her warmth, generosity, and spirited humor will be deeply missed by all who knew her.