Linda Joyce
Alton |
Linda Joyce, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away on April 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and laughter. Born on August 2, 1950, in Wood River, Linda was the cherished only child of Carma Lee Cutter Stone and Robert Lee Stone. She grew up with a spirit of kindness and a passion for learning that would define her life.
On April 29, 1977, Linda married Roger Joyce in East Alton, beginning a partnership filled with devotion and joy that lasted through the years. Together, they raised two sons Adam and Aaron, who were the pride of her life. Linda's heart expanded even further with the arrival of her six precious grandchildren: Lucas Robert Joyce, Henry William Joyce, Walter Thomas Joyce, Truman Michael Joyce, Mildred Eleanor “Miss Millie” Joyce, and Bernadette Eloise “Berdie” Joyce. She treasured every moment spent with them, sharing her warmth and playful spirit.
Linda's dedication to education shaped her career and touched countless lives. She earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree, fueling her commitment to teaching for 23 years. She served as a special education teacher with the Jerseyville Community School District, where her patience, creativity, and care made a lasting impact on her students. Before embarking on her teaching journey at age 40, Linda worked for 12 years at Kroger Grocery, where her strong work ethic and friendly nature endeared her colleagues and customers alike.
Known for her generous heart, Linda loved to laugh and bring joy to those around her. She had a gift for finding fun in life’s simple moments and sharing that kindness with others. Her legacy of kindness will live on in her family and the community she held dear.
Linda is survived by her loving husband, Roger; her sons, Adam (Chelsea) and Aaron (Ellen) and her adored grandchildren, Lucas, Henry, Walter, Truman, Millie, and Berdie. She was preceded in death by her parents Carma Lee and Robert Stone, brother-in-law Richard Joyce, father-in-law Lester Joyce, and mother-in-law Beverly Joyce.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Here’s to Reading, Inc., 23281 Helen Court, Jerseyville, IL 62052, a cause close to Linda's heart, reflecting her love of reading and learning.
A visitation will be held Thursday April 10, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Gent Funeral Home in Alton, IL. A funeral service will be held at Gent Funeral Home on Friday April 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Reverend Sonny Renken will officiate. Her laughter, love and light will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew her. Gent Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements, online guest book can be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com
Gent Funeral Home
