Joyce J. Hammond

Joyce J. Hammond, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2024, in Port Charlotte, Florida, at the age of 95. She was born on April 15, 1929, in Battle Creek, Michigan.

Joyce grew up in the heart of Michigan, where she attended Battle Creek Central High School and graduated with the Class of 1947. Her early years were filled with the warmth of a close-knit family, including her late parents Walter and Vivian (Bennett) Smith, her sister Lois Sherman, and her brother Ivan Smith. Joyce's journey led her to the love of her life, Merle D. Hammond, and the two were united in marriage in 1947, a loving partnership that flourished for 51 years until Merle's passing.

Together, Joyce and Merle welcomed their children into the world, and Joyce's role as a mother was one she embraced with her whole heart. She is survived by her daughter Julia (Frank) Martini, her son Norman (Kim) Hammond, her brothers Eugene and Laird Osborn, and predeceased by daughters Alicia Eichenauer and Peggy Smith. Joyce's legacy continues through her 13 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored and who brought immense joy to her life.

Professionally, Joyce was the proud owner and operator of Countryside Beauty Salon, where she not only styled hair but also cultivated a community of friendship and support.

Joyce's commitment to her faith and community was evident in her active membership at the United Methodist Church in both Dowling and Florida. She served as the head of the kitchen for Northport Meals on Wheels for a decade, ensuring that her neighbors were cared for and nourished.

An adventurer at heart, Joyce and Merle were known as snowbirds for 15 years, traveling with the Avion Trailer Group and exploring the beauty of the country together. Ater Merle passed, she spent her final 26 years in North Port, Englewood and Rotonda West, Florida. Joyce had a particular love for the beach, where she could often be found searching for shark teeth, a hobby that reflected her curiosity and appreciation for nature. Her green thumb was evident in her beautiful gardens.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 South Broadway Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, at 10:00 AM, with a Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 AM, Interment at Banfield Cemetery. To leave online condolences visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. This Service will be Livestreamed at: www.facebook.com/girrbachfuneralhome. You do not need a Facebook Account to view the service. If you click on a live link and you do not have an account, FB will ask you to log in or sign up. You may or may not see a "Not Now" option, if so, click that and scroll down to videos and that message to log in will disappear and you may now enjoy the live FB presentation.