There once was an angel named Joyce,
With a sweet smile and laughter-filled voice,
And at Christmas each year,
She shared our family’s cheer,
We were honored so much by that choice.

What a beautiful nickname she had,
Only used by the friends of my Dad,
‘Cause the name he’d employ,
For his dear friend was JOY,
And it fit her; for joy’s what she had.

Joy(ce) Van Vlack passed away on October 27, 2013, surrounded by her daughters and their families. She was one of the kindest, most positive people I have ever known, and I will miss her incredible hugs and encouragement of my writing.