Joyce Ilene Halderson Gibbs was born March 11, 1933 to Orval and Freda (Horn) Halderson in Simpson, Kansas. She died on April 27, 2019 at the Trego County Long Term Care at the age of 86.
Joyce was baptized May 7, 1933 at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Glasco, Kansas. She was confirmed at St. Paul’s on April 14, 1946. The church and her faith were a strong part of her life. She enjoyed teaching Sunday School and Confirmation classes. She loved WELCA activities and Bible Studies. She served on the Church Council at Zion Lutheran in Phillipsburg.
Joyce grew up in Glasco, Kansas where she was a graduate of Glasco High School class of 1950. On December 24, 1950 she married John W. Gibbs. After John returned from Korea they moved to Phillipsburg where she was a long time resident. Joyce worked in the billing and purchasing department for KN Energy, retiring after 22 years of service. In retirement Joyce enjoyed traveling in their camper with John. Together they visited many parts of the United States.
Family was important to Joyce. She and John celebrated 67 years of marriage before his death in 2017. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved her pets, especially cat Jazzy and dog Sam whom she regarded as her ‘extra children’. She loved visiting with anyone in person or on the phone, and have a cup of coffee.
Joyce was an avid coffee drinker and loved a good cup (or several) throughout the day. While she did like a regular cup of black coffee, her favorite was a strong cup of Jamaica Me Crazy blend. She was an avid bridge player and was a member of several different bridge groups.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John and a son, Martin John Gibbs.
She is survived by a son, Randy and wife Amy of WaKeeney, Kansas; a daughter Melissa McKee and husband Chris of Abilene, Kansas; by 5 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren; extended family and a many friends. Her quick wit and warm smile will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 4, 2019, at Zion Lutheran Church, Phillipsburg, Kansas. There will be no visitation as cremation was chosen.
Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church. Donations made to the church may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.