Joyce Ann Sutton

Joyce Ann (Mulcahy) Sutton, 84, of Peoria, passed away peacefully at Buehler Home on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

Born to Edward and Theresa (Layden) Mulcahy on June 20, 1941, she married Geoffrey Sutton in Springfield, Illinois, on September 9, 1966. He preceded her in death after 41 years of marriage.

Joyce is survived by her loving daughters, Meghan Vincent of Morton and Margot Conahan of Peoria, and two cherished grandchildren, Margaret and Liam Conahan. She also leaves behind her sister, Donna Fitts of Springfield, and numerous family members from the Fitts, McKinley, Mulcahy, and Noonan families, as well as close life-long friends Bonnie and Bill Williams and their family. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Geoff, her brother Edward Mulcahy, her son-in-law Ronald Vincent, and her nephew Scott McKinley.

A graduate of Sacred Heart Academy and Illinois State University, Joyce dedicated her professional life to advocacy and serving others as a public school teacher, a paralegal advocate, and a teacher for the blind and visually impaired. Known for her sharp, playful wit and love of cooking, gardening, and joie de vivre, Joyce was a vibrant presence. She was surrounded by fun, loving, and spirited family and friends throughout her life.

In her retirement, Joyce became a Master Gardener, and her gardens on Teton Drive were well-known and admired in the neighborhood. In more recent years, Joyce was living her "best life" at Buehler Home, where she made many new friends and enjoyed an active and social community. Joyce was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Peoria, where she was particularly drawn to their welcoming and inclusive ministry.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Cyd's in the Park in Peoria. In honor of Joyce, who would often exclaim, "That needs more color," and never met a snazzy jacket she didn't like, bright, colorful, or fun attire is encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Wright & Salmon in Peoria is handling the arrangements. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.wrightandsalmon.com