Joyce Ann Germain Connor

1933 - 2023

Connor, Joyce Ann Germain
TROY - Joyce Ann Germain Connor of Troy passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023, with family by her side.
She was born on June 6, 1933, in Troy, the daughter of Ralph J. Germain and Gertrude Schneider Germain, and the granddaughter of Peter J. Schneider. Joyce attended the old School 2 on 10th Street in Troy and was a graduate of Catholic Central High School, class of 1951. Joyce spent her career working in Troy performing administrative duties for law firms and other various businesses but a large part of her working years were spent at Pioneer Savings Bank.
Joyce is survived by her companion of over 70 years who has been her husband, best friend, and partner in life, John A. Connor Sr. The two met just weeks before John left for the Air Force Academy and continued their relationship corresponding through love letters until marrying in September of 1954. Joyce moved to Del Rio, Texas where John was stationed until the two returned to Troy to settle down in 1956.
Joyce was a wonderful mother to her two children, Mary Lou Baker (Daniel) of Clifton Park and John A. Connor Jr. of Troy. She was also the grandmother of Timothy Ruffinen Jr. (Audrey) of Niskayuna; and great-grandmother of Ava and Ivy. She also leaves behind her cherished cousin, Patricia Fontaine of Troy, several other cousins, and many dear friends who she considered family. Joyce was predeceased by her parents, her aunt and uncle, cousins and many beloved pets.
An avid reader and collector of books, Joyce enjoyed taking road trips across the Northeast, visiting friends and attending as many county and country fairs as she could, making many friends along the way. She lived a modest life; frequenting her favorite stops in downtown Troy, getting her hair done, and caring for her pets. Joyce believed in being kind to everyone, always keeping your word, being honest, and finding happiness in being unique. She was a proud graduate of HVCC's Clown Class of 1982 (her clown name was Catnip), winning the Pal Joey Award for being the friendliest clown. The family has many stories about Joyce that will keep us smiling; she was an amazing woman. Above all, Joyce was known for her love of all animals.
The family would like to extend their most heartfelt appreciation to all the staff at Van Rensselaer Manor for the love, care, and compassion given to Joyce and Mary Lou over the past three years. A very special thanks to the staff on the B3 unit; they are incredible people who became family to Joyce. Also, thank you to The Community Hospice for providing support during the last month when we needed you most.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 10, at 1 p.m. in the Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 105 Vliet Blvd, Cohoes. Interment will follow in the New Rural Cemetery, Rensselaer. Relatives and friends may visit at the funeral home from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers and honoring Joyce's devotion to saving cats in need, donations may be made to Whiskers Animal Benevolent League, P.O. Box 11190, Albany, NY, 12211.
To express your sympathy visit, Fitzgeraldfuneralhomeltd.com.