Joyce Marion Graham

Joyce Marion Patsy Edwards was born April 27, 1934 in Seattle, the last of seven children born to Charles and Anna Edwards. She graduated from Snohomish High School in 1952. One of her first jobs was as a bookmobile librarian for the Snohomish County Library system. She married Richard A. Graham in 1954. A few years later, their four children arrived in rapid succession.

After years being a full time mother, Joyce began a career in banking. Her unique attributes made her a wonderful employee. She was friendly, lovely, well groomed, and efficient. Added to that, her sparkling eyes, ready smile, and quick wit combined to make her a long lasting friend and wonderful family member. She maintained contact with high school classmates and work colleagues throughout her life, and she kept adding friends along her way. Joyce and Dick were married more than 60 years.

She served her greater family as matriarch for twenty-two years. Joyce was always available for a phone chat or to brainstorm solutions or offer insight. Her morning routine included checking in with her “peeps” on social media sites. Then, she might head off to a Zumba class or meet family and friends for bowling. She traveled with family members and took cruises with friends. She was a busy woman.

Joyce loved color. Her outdoor flower gardens were filled with beautiful colors. Her house plants grew in colorful pots. She reveled in finding the exact shade of wall paint—the kind that would make her happy every time she entered a room. She decorated her living spaces with color-coordinated accessories, can no corner was without an eye-catching burst of interest, often in a dazzling color. Joyce was an artist. The wall of oil paintings she completed over the course of her lifetime filled the walls of her entryway. She enjoyed art classes and created art projects of all kinds.

Joyce was a treasure. Each of us who knew and loved her will remember her spark. Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, all who have bright eyes, continue on. Children: Kim; Todd; Todd’s wife, Roni; Guy; and Troy. Grandchildren: Cody, Oleana, Ericka, Taylor, and T.J. Great grandchildren: Jayce, Runa, Torryn, Nora, and Aria.

We celebrate our good fortune in knowing and loving her. At this time her family has decided to wait till a later date to have a celebration of her wonderful life.