M. Joyce Gerlak

M. Joyce Gerlak, age 94, peacefully entered eternal rest on November 25, 2023. Joyce was born in Tannersville, NY, on May 14, 1929, to the late Newman Barnes and the late Jean (Dolan) Barnes.
Joyce learned about survival and resilience at a young age during World War II. She was a patriot to this country as a young girl who bravely volunteered as a lookout for the war on her family's farm in Windham, NY.
Growing up in a family business, "The Barnesdale Bed & Breakfast," helped show Joyce the importance of family, hard work and determination, as well as the ins and outs of the hospitality industry.
Joyce met her beloved husband Joseph (Joe) Gerlak in the Catskills of New York. As a famed golf professional, Joe's job was a family affair. Joyce was by his side with every decision and challenge. After 75 years in the golf industry, they chose to retire to Melbourne Beach, Fla., where Joyce returned to her roots as a bed & breakfast proprietor at "Tiara By The Sea" for the next 28 years.
In her element, her pleasant personality was contagious, and she left an indelible impression on everyone she encountered. Joyce had a compassionate spirit who loved her family and caring for others. Her life turned full circle as it was in her early years in her parents boarding house in Windham, NY.
Joyce was forever the "Mom," always going above and beyond and attending to everyone's needs. Joyce loved dancing, playing cards and spending time in the kitchen, creating delicious meals for her family. Joyce loved and lived for us all, and the family will honor her legacy by continuing to live life to the fullest as she always wanted.
Joyce was preceded in death by her sister Shirley J. (Barnes) Layman, beloved husband Joesph (Joe) Gerlak and their three sons, Joesph Jr. (Joey), John (Johnny) and Victor Gerlak. Joyce will be remembered for her generous spirit and her selfless kindness to others. Her legacy lives on through her surviving children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Joyce is survived by her sons: Gary Gerlak (Sherrie) and Michael Gerlak (Joy). Grandchildren: Lance Gerlak and Lani Gerlak Soreide (Lars), Kirsten Gerlak and Stella Gerlak. Great-Grandchildren: Landon Soreide and Liv Soreide, Tatum Gerlak and London Gerlak.
Joyce will be laid to rest with her husband of 62 years in a private ceremony at South Florida National Cemetery on December 6, 2023. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to America's veterans at the WoundedWarriorProject.org.