Vivian Elaine Joyce

Vivian Elaine Nelson Joyce passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend. Vivian was born In Newgulf, Texas on October 8, 1937 to the late Fred and Leona Nelson. 

Growing up as an only child she spent many days in Matagorda fishing with her dad and had many stories of those times. She was convinced up until the day she died that she could still get in a boat and ride on the river and bays. As a teenager she also loved riding horses and was a repeat winner at the Wharton County Rodeo in the barrel racing and roping events.Vivian graduated Boling High School in 1956 and soon after married the love of her life, Johnny Joyce. He preceded her in death on July 3, 2003. Together they ran various small businesses and eventually ended up operating a successful cattle fitting business and world renown cattle promotions business, all while raising 5 children. Vivian got the most joy from watching her kids, grandkids and great grandkids participate in 4-H and FFA projects, sports, cheerleading and anything else they were involved in. She always said if someone’s car was headed to a cattle show or a game she wanted to be in it. In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her youngest grandson, Justin Joyce.

She is survived by her five children, Lynn Joyce and wife Abby of Wharton; Lisa Welch and husband Larry of Wharton; Debra Shanks and husband Gene of Eagle Lake; Johnna Sheek and husband Royce of Boling; and Kevin Joyce and wife Susan of Boling; grandchildren Michael Joyce and wife Misty; Johnny Joyce; Andy Welch and wife Amy; Leslie Welch; Nicholas Sheek; Brandon Shanks and wife Andrea; Cassidy Sheek; Heather Shanks and Zach Daniels; Zak Mitchell and wife Janae; Kristen Hargrave and husband Chris; Callie McDonald and husband James; Kylee Joyce, numerous great grandchildren and our beloved friends Patty and Arch Stout. Pallbearers will be Michael Joyce, Johnny Joyce, Andy Welch, Brandon Shanks, Zac Mitchell and Kylee Joyce. Honorary Pallbearers will be Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren.

She was affectionately known as grandma to many more in the community as well. She was truly blessed.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 27th, 2025, starting at 9 a.m. followed by a Funeral Service at 10 a.m. with Rev. Debbie Cenko officiating.  Burial will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Funeral Services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home.  Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com.