Joyce J. Scott

Joyce J. Scott, age 86, a lifelong resident of Whitehall, entered into eternity to join her husband Jim and other loved ones as she was welcomed into the arms of Jesus. She died peacefully at home on September 17, 2016, surrounded by her family, after courageously coping with diabetes and kidney disease for decades. Joyce was born June 17, 1930 to Francis and Agnes (Ainger) Benjamin. She enjoyed a wonderful life as daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, aunt, cousin, wife, mother, grandma, teacher and friend. Joyce was a woman of action. She was the consummate hostess; always planning the next meal, outing, or opportunity to serve. She was known for the lost art of note writing and was constantly sending cards or notes for birthdays, anniversaries, encouragement, and thanks. Following graduation from Whitehall Schools and Central Michigan University, she married James C. Scott and together they embarked on their teaching careers in Whitehall. As a Home Economics teacher, Joyce believed in the importance of instructing her students in an array of valuable life skills such as sewing, cooking, meal planning, and etiquette. Joyce and Jim were blessed with two daughters and adored their grandchildren. The family home, overlooking the White River marsh, was designed by Joyce. Joyce enjoyed aqua aerobics, camping, cooking, dancing, history, reading, sailing, sewing, skiing and travel, but foremost in her heart were her immediate and extended family. Some travel highlights included - visiting our National Parks from coast to coast, including the Maritime Provinces and circumnavigating Lake Michigan in the family sailboat as the 4 Js. SURVIVORS She is survived by daughters, Janeen (Steve) Docsa of Kalamazoo and Joan Scott of Whitehall; grandchildren, Scott (Kelci) Docsa of Holland, and Sara Docsa of Kalamazoo; brother-in-law, Richard Nyquist of Royal Oak, and by many nieces and nephews who were an important part of her life. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters Fran Nyquist of Royal Oak, and Gloria (Glenn) Snook of Whitehall. Joyce was the last of the 10 Ainger cousins - the grandchildren of Abner and Viola (Davis) Ainger. SERVICE A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 24, 2016 at Whitehall United Methodist Church, 117 S. Division, Whitehall, MI, with visitation one hour prior to the service. MEMORIAL: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, to support protection of Lake Michigan, or Whitehall United Methodist Church.