Joyce Ann Richardson, of Zelienople, Pennsylvania, passed away on July 9, 2024, at the age of 76, after an extended illness.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1947, Joyce was bright, kind, and gentle soul. She enjoyed listening to the oldies and loved the Beach Boys and Elvis. She liked to go for long nature walks in the country where she lived for many years with her parents. She especially loved her sister-in-law, Kay’s apricot cookies. A lifelong Catholic, she enjoyed going to mass and having scripture read to her. Joyce’s journey through this life was anything but easy. From the age of 12, she battled with complications from mental illness and depression. In her final years, she lost her sight considerably and was almost blind. Despite all that life dealt her and the hardships and limitations that she experienced, she had an unwavering faith, devotion, and love for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She rarely complained and would share her sweet smile, highlighted by her pretty blue eyes, when surrounded by her family. Her life is a testament to true faith, and she will be sadly missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret Rose and Herbert M. Richardson.
She is survived by her brother, H. Kyle Richardson and his wife, Mary Kay Richardson; a nephew, K. Justin Richardson, and his wife, Melissa; a niece, K. Jennifer S. Muir, and her husband, Scott; two grandnephews, Derek M, Richardson and Drake S. Muir; and two grandnieces, Kylie E. Richardson and Olivia M. Muir.
The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to her caregivers and especially those of Hospice, Lisa Wolowicz and Breanna Kreutz for their dedication and devotion to gently caring for Joyce in her final days.
“Jesus, dear, the day is over. Now I leave my labors light.
But before I seek my slumber, I’ve come to say a sweet good night.
Would that I might tarry near thee? Rest beneath thy lonely shrine.
Thou would whisper loving secrets, I would tell thee all of mine.
But, I cannot linger, Jesus, I must leave thee for a while.
So bestow on me a blessing, and a fond and approving smile.
I will leave my heart beside thee. It will rest securest there.
And within thy fond embraces, it will grow to be more dear.
So good night once more my Jesus, grant no matter where I be,
May my day thoughts and my night dreams be of thee and only thee.”
Good night, sweet Joyce Ann. Until we meet again.
Arrangements were entrusted to Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, Inc., 124 E. North Street, Butler, PA 16001.
All who knew Joyce are encouraged to share memories and upload photos to her unique remembrance page at www.thompson-miller.com.