Verna Yvonne Joyce

Verna Yvonne Joyce, born July 26, 1944, in Poughkeepsie, NY, to Laverne and Phyllis Smalt (née Riley), passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Jesse Edwin Joyce, cherished brother Larry Albert Smalt, and her parents. Verna is survived by her daughter, Lisa Roberts (Tim), and son, James Joyce; two grandchildren, Stephanie Swisher (Andrew) and Samuel Joyce; and three great-grandchildren, Jessamyn, Jackson, and June Swisher; and many extended family and friends. Verna proudly served in the U.S. Army for 14 years with unwavering patriotism and dedication to her nation. Her commitment to service extended into retirement, where she continued to serve through the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary. Verna and Jesse's decision to plan their joint burial at Arlington National Cemetery is a poignant symbol of their enduring love and shared commitment to honor and service, and a testament to their unity even beyond this life. She will be laid to rest alongside Jesse on a date to be announced.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the compassionate staff at Ardie R. Copas State Veterans Home and Treasure Coast Hospice. Memorial gifts may be sent to organizations that support causes near and dear to Verna's heart - veterans, animal welfare, and the Alzheimer's Association.