Joyce Hearn

Joyce Ann Hearn, 77 of Harrisburg, PA, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025, at Harrisburg Hospital. Born on Christmas Day, 1947, in Richmond, VA, to Thomas Martin and Sarah Jane (Walker) Van Buren (both deceased), Joyce lived a life marked by strength, determination, and deep love for her family.

In 1950, the Van Buren family—Joyce, her brother Lester, and their parents, Sarah, and Thomas—moved from Richmond, VA, to Philadelphia, PA. There Joyce spent her childhood surrounded by both treasured family experiences and formative challenges that tested her resolve. She especially loved spending summers with her cousins—times filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Those bonds remained strong throughout her life, keeping her connected to the family roots she cherished. Joyce went on to attend Overbrook High School, where her strength of character and determination continued to take shape.

Her life’s journey cultivated the courageous, energized, and independent spirit for which she became known. Those qualities shaped her strong will and fierce determination—guiding her throughout her life. With that foundation, Joyce made the decisive move to Washington, DC, to begin her adult life and forge her own path. There, on Capitol Hill, she built a successful career with the Federal Government in an administrative role in the House of Representatives, including service with the Senate Commerce Committee. During her years in Washington, she also played an instrumental role in establishing the first on-site daycare center for the children of House employees—a lasting testament to her vision, leadership, and care for others. She later continued her federal service with the Small Business Administration before moving to Harrisburg, PA.

In Harrisburg, Joyce furthered her career at Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) as Accounts Payable Manager, where she also earned her Associate’s Degree. At HACC, she took pride in ushering in the next generation of youth, exposing them to internships and career opportunities. Her work was marked by excellence, with every audit confirming her meticulous

standards and maintaining an unblemished record that stood as a testament to her professionalism. She retired from HACC in 2014 after a distinguished career.

Faith was also central in Joyce’s life. In 1995, she became a member of Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where she served with joy and commitment. She was a devoted participant in the Adult Sunday School, remaining steadfast in her faith throughout her life. She was also a warm presence on the Welcome Committee and shared her talents as part of the Golden Years Ministry, serving faithfully as its Treasurer and using her accounting skills to support the church community she loved.

Joyce was equally proud to serve as Treasurer of the Adams/Walker Family Reunion since its inception—diligent in her efforts and deeply valuing the contribution she could make to her family. Through her work, she ensured that the family remained connected, year after year, celebrating their shared legacy.

Joyce will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments, but for her vibrant spirit. She was known for her ever-present smile, her love of family, and her joyful nature. Fiercely determined and strong-willed, Joyce carried herself with confidence, grace, and a clear sense of right and wrong. She lived with humility and with pride—humble in her gratitude for life’s blessings, yet proud of the family she raised, the values she upheld, and the example she set. There was only one way to do things—the right way. She lived by high principles, values, and faith, and instilled those same morals in her children and grandchildren.

She found joy in daily connections with her loved ones, fueling her own energy while lifting the spirits of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. She wanted to hear the stories of their day, and she delighted in structured reading time over Zoom with her grandchildren—relishing every moment of their learning experiences and always reminding them that “they could.” She was active and vibrant: the neighborhood’s most powerful power walker, a roller skater well into her 70s, a park-goer who would jump on the swings, a double dutch queen, a dancer at every party, and someone who always enjoyed a good laugh—even if the joke was on her.

She is survived by her husband: Charlie F. Hearn, Jr.; her children: Rhonda Lynne Fraction, Crystal Ann Barnes; their spouses: Steven Fraction, Stephon Barnes; her brother and sister-in-law: Lester Van Buren and Daphne Van Buren; her grandchildren: Micah J. Fraction, Myanna N. Fraction, Micaiah A. Fraction, Maliah A. Fraction, Paige L. Barnes, Peyton R. Barnes, Langston L. Barnes; her great-granddaughter: Irie S. Fraction; her nephews: Eric M. Van Buren, Michael G. Van Buren; along with cousins and extended family she held close to her heart and close friends she cherished as family.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.