Joyce Traub
Carrollton |
Joyce Ann Traub, 77, passed away at 11:11 p.m., Monday, September 30, 2024 at her home.
She was born on November 12, 1946 in Jerseyville, Illinois, the daughter of Ray E. and Lauretta M. (Jilek) Alexander Sr.
Raised in the Catholic faith, Joyce attended Holy Ghost Catholic School in Jerseyville and graduated from Jersey Community High School in 1964. Her strong sense of community and faith was a guiding principle throughout her life.
On July 7, 1976, Joyce married the love of her life, Terry Traub, at their home in Jerseyville. Together, they built a life filled with love, adventure and shared dreams. After living in Jerseyville for several years, they made their home in Carrollton on New Year’s Eve of 1984, where they have remained for the past 40 years.
From the moment they said “I do,” Joyce and Terry navigated every aspect of their life side by side. Whether they were building their business, raising their family or following their interest, their love and partnership remained the foundation of their lives. While the highs and triumphs of life were plentiful, it was during the challenging times that their love and example truly shined.
Together, they owned and operated several Dairy Queen franchises throughout the area. They opened their first location in Jerseyville on June 22, 1966, followed by locations in Carrollton in 1979, White Hall in 1985, and Staunton in 1988. Joyce and Terry’s work ethic and dedication not only grew their business but also instilled the values of hard work and perseverance in their children. Their son Kevin eventually re-purchased and operated the Jerseyville location, and their son Tim operated his own franchise in Okawville. When Joyce and Terry made the decision to retire in 2010, their daughter Missy took over operations of the Carrollton location, carrying on the family legacy.
Joyce and Terry enjoyed traveling extensively, with many of their trips centered around their shared passion for following buffalo herds across North America. They recently had the joy of experiencing one of these adventures for a final time together, observing a herd in Piasa just last week.
Another shared passion they shared was their love of the Chicago Cubs. From spending their honeymoon at Wrigley Field 48 years ago through today, she remained a dedicated follower of the Cubs, celebrating their victories and commiserating over their defeats with unwavering loyalty.
Her family, whom she cherished deeply, carries on her legacy of love, strength and determination. Joyce is survived by her husband, Terry Traub of Carrollton; three children and their spouses, Kevin and Debbie Traub of Jerseyville, Tim and Mindy Traub of Okawville and Missy and Jason Young of Carrollton; seven grandchildren, Courtney Traub of Los Angeles, California, Brandi (Josh) Smith of Marion, Suzanne (Brad) Fry of Edwardsville, Brianna (Todd) Wagner of Jerseyville, Torrie (Brad) Gilmore of Jerseyville, Tyler Traub of Okawville and Levi Traub of Okawville; three great grandchildren, Avery and Logan Gilmore and Olive Fry; two sisters and brothers in-law, Jane and Scooter Jackson of Jerseyville and Jean and K.C. Lynch; as well as a sister in-law, Martha Alexander of Jerseyville; two brothers in-law, Wendell Traub of Dieterich and Richard Mann of Council Bluffs, Iowa.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Ray E. “Bud” Alexander Jr. and Robert Alexander; a sister in-law, Wanda Mann; a brother in-law, Wilton Traub.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday, October 4, 2024 at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville.
Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 a.m., Saturday, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Jerseyville with Father Martin Smith officiating.
Burial will follow at St. Francis Cemetery in Jerseyville.
Memorials may be given to St. Francis/Holy Ghost Catholic School in Jerseyville or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Joyce’s life was a testament to the power of love, family and hard work. Her legacy will live on through all who had the privilege to know and love her.
Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com.
Crawford Funeral Home