Joyce E. Thomas (nee Witherspoon) of Beecher, Illinois, formerly of Harvey, passed away May 20, 2017 at the age of 81. 

   Joyce is survived by her children: Cheryl (Tom, Jr.) Patti, Keith (Eileen) Thomas, Kurt (Lilian) Thomas, and Valorie (Carl) Lanning; daughter-in-law: Cheryl Thomas; son-in-law: Gabriel Carbajal; 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one brother: James (Happy) Witherspoon, Jr.; along with several cousins, many nieces and nephews, and a host of friends. 

   She was preceded in death by her husband: Richard; a son: Kevin; a daughter: Katherine; her parents: Elaine and James Witherspoon, Sr.; two sisters: Betty and Patricia; one brother: Mark; and a great-grandson: Keigan. 

   Joyce was actively involved in church, PTA, Little League, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts with her children.  Over the years Joyce worked as a clerk for Western Union, a lunchroom aid at Thornton Twsp High School, a clerk at Dugan’s Office Supply and finally retired as a clerk from B&H Radio.  She was a member of First Christian Church of Lansing. 

   A memorial service will be held in Joyce’s honor at the First Christian Church of Lansing (2921 Ridge Rd, Lansing, IL · (708) 474-5370) on June 10^th at 2:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Christian Church of Lansing Rehab Fund.  Private graveside services will be held at a later date.