Ronnie Joyce

Ronnie “Ron” Mize Joyce, 87, of Maryville, Illinois, passed peacefully on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville. Born on December 7, 1938, in Granite City, Illinois, Ron was the beloved son of the late George Joyce, Agnes (Mize) Kern and stepfather, Ernie Kern.

A proud United States Navy veteran, Ron served his country with honor and devotion. On January 7, 1961, he married the love of his life, Gloria Stille, beginning a marriage that spanned sixty-five beautiful years—a true testament to faith, commitment, and enduring love.

Ron was well known and deeply respected throughout the Granite City community as the owner and operator of Ron’s Barber Shop, where he not only perfected his craft but also formed lifelong friendships. He never met a stranger, and anyone who sat in his chair left with more than a haircut—they left with a smile and a story.

Music was one of Ron’s greatest gifts. A talented musician and passionate servant of the Lord, he devoted many years to ministry as a Minister of Music. Ron had the pleasure in starting his ministry with Grace Baptist Church in Granite City, IL, followed by Bellview Baptist Church in Paducah, KY, First Baptist Church in Litchfield, IL, Unity Baptist Church in Ashland, KY and First Baptist Church in Metropolis, IL. Ultimately retiring from Grace Baptist Church in Granite City, IL. His love of worship and service continued as a faithful member of First Baptist Maryville, where he found great joy in serving God. Ron’s greatest ministry joy was his ministry to youth over 3 decades. His ability to share the love of Christ to young people resulted in countless church leaders and pastors. An annual mission trip was the highlight of the year.

Above all else, Ron cherished his family. Time spent with them was his greatest joy, and his legacy of love, faith, kindness, and conversation will live on through them. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his siblings, Patty Lynn and Tony Kern.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria Joyce of Maryville, IL; his loving children: Steve Joyce of Troy, IL, Cathryn (Dr. John) Shelton of Paducah, KY, Rhonda (John) Stowe of Maryville, IL, and Dr. Nathan (Crystal) Joyce of Paducah, KY; and his dear brother, Dr. Ernie (Marsha) Kern.

Ron was a proud and loving grandfather to Stephanie (Mark) Millikin, Ryan (Michelle) Stowe, Dr. Ashley Shelton, Katy (Jason) Pursell, Sam (Allie) Stowe, Dr. Ethan Shelton, Patrick (Charity) Stowe, Emma Joyce, Elise Joyce, Evan Joyce, and Eadlyn Joyce, and a cherished great-grandfather to fifteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Irwin Chapel in Glen Carbon, Illinois.

A celebration of Ron’s life will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Irwin Chapel in Glen Carbon, Illinois, with Pastor Tom Hufty officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Maryville for mission trips or to Heartland Bible College in Uganda https://heartlandpaducah.tpsdb.com/Give/hcg.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home