Obituary: Joyce Lee Ballard, Feb. 6, 1935-June, 15, 2025 (Father’s Day)

For The Madera Tribune

Joyce Lee Ballard.

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Age at the time of death: 90

Joyce had selflessly donated her remains to the Willed Body Program at Oklahoma University, Norman, OK. A memorial service will be announced at a later date and will take place in Madera, CA, nearing the later part of this year.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Madera City Mission, in memory of Joyce Lee Ballard.

Joyce was preceded in death by her loving husband of 32 years, Elvin Wesley Ballard, her parents Ronald and Hazel Beatty and brothers Robert, Richard and Ronald Beatty.

Joyce was most proud of her six children Jennifer Wheeler of Fresno, CA; Catherine Lane of Lynnwood, WA; Mark Kingsley of Norfolk, NE; Rebecca Kingsley-Bartley of Oklahoma City, OK; Jon Kingsley of Chandler, AZ; Kristen Perry of Yukon, OK; her 15 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

Joyce was born in San Francisco, CA, and spent much of her early life attending Trinity Lutheran Church in San Francisco, which was part of the Norwegian community. She spoke fondly of community dinners and events as a teen. Joyce was known for her talent in singing as she learned to sing in this cathedral, it was a magnificent privilege to hear her sing. As a single mother, she worked throughout her life to support her children and household as an executive secretary wowing her employers with her devotion to her work, exceptional organizational and typing skills. She retired from Kingsview Mental Health in 1990 after many years of dedicated service.

Joyce valued her faith and was deeply involved in her church, First Christian Church of Madera, CA, where she was involved in Bible studies, participating in craft fairs, continued her love of music and assisting with the business workings of the church office. Joyce spent many hours creating hand sewn dolls for her friends and family, many of which reassembled the person for whom she was making the doll.

Joyce moved to Edmond, OK, in 2024 to be closer to family. During her last few years, she continued to sing her hymns and made sure everyone knew she loved them. Her caregivers often said, “Joyce is my favorite.” Joyce could often be heard praying for others; she was well loved and admired for her bright blue eyes and her sweet smile.

Joyce was surrounded by her family as she transitioned peacefully to her new home in heaven and to finally be reunited with those who have gone before her.