Westfield- Joyce Lyn Decker age 70, passed away on August 22, 2019; surrounded by her loving family.
Joyce was born in Cambridge, Vermont on August 20, 1949 to the late Harley and Louise (Hartley) Haire. She spent most of her life in Southwick, graduating from Southwick High School in 1967. Joyce received her Bachelor’s Degree from Westfield State while working full time at Connecticut National Life Insurance Company. She went on to become a self-employed bookkeeper and seasonal tax preparer. Joyce had a way with numbers, but also with people, as she could converse with anyone on any topic.
She enjoyed reading, watching movies, listening to music, sewing, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren who were the light and joy in her life. She was very proud to be their “Gigi” and many people came to refer to her by this beloved name. Joyce grew up in 4-H in Hampden County, and the tradition continued with her daughter and now her grandchildren. She loved to attend the fair and assist in sewing and baking projects. Joyce had a love of race cars and her ‘76 Stingray Corvette, as well as many pets through her life. Despite the daily struggles brought by her illnesses, Joyce remained a model of strength, grace and resilience.
Joyce worshiped at Agawam Congregational Church and was an active prayer warrior. She is survived by her daughter, Janet Brown and her husband Randy, of Southwick; 2 grandchildren, Jaxson and Madelyn; a sister, Anna Cole and her husband Charles, of Louisiana; and a brother, Leslie Haire and his wife Gwen, of Colorado. She also leaves extended family and many friends who became members of her family. The family will gather and receive friends from 10:00 AM -12:00 NOON on Saturday August 31, 2019 in the Southwick Forastiere Family Funeral Home, 624 College Highway, Southwick. A Memorial Service will then follow at 12:00 NOON.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hampden County 4-H Fair Association, in care of Carey Leckie, 463 College Highway, Southwick, MA 01077.
Please visit www.forastiere.com to leave a personal note for the family.
