SUTTONS BAY – Joyce Marie Nash, 101, of Suttons Bay, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Culver Meadows Senior Living Center in Traverse City.

Born on October 20, 1924, in Flint, Michigan, Joyce was the daughter of Thomas and Frances (Hard) Riley. She lived a remarkable life defined by faith, determination, kindness, compassion, and an extraordinary love for learning, teaching, family, and friends.

Education was one of Joyce’s greatest passions. Never one to let opportunities pass her by, Joyce returned to school in her thirties and earned her high school diploma from Sunfield Community Schools, all while balancing family responsibilities and pursuing her dream of becoming a teacher. She later earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Michigan State University, proving through her own life that it is never too late to learn, grow, and follow your dreams.

Joyce taught at Sunfield Elementary School for more than 30 years, touching the lives of countless students and families. She found deep joy in helping children learn, grow, and believe in themselves. Over the years, she had the special privilege of teaching multiple generations of families, including the grandchildren of some of her earliest students. After retiring and moving to Suttons Bay, she continued tutoring at Suttons Bay Schools until age 95 as sharing her knowledge and encouraging others remained a part of who she was. Her students adored her and fondly remembered the Skittles she shared as special rewards, along with the patience, kindness, and care she showed every child. Joyce had a rare gift for making people feel loved, welcomed, and important. She had a genuine interest in the lives of others and a remarkable way of making everyone feel welcomed and valued. Her kindness, compassion, and warm spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Guided by her faith, she lived with grace, generosity, and love. Her beautiful smile, infectious laugh, and ability to brighten a room will be remembered forever.

Joyce was an inspiration throughout her entire life. Even at 101 years old, she remained strong, independent, and full of life, living on her own until shortly before her passing. She continued to find joy in everyday moments and reminded those around her that life is a gift meant to be embraced.

Joyce took great pride in her Irish heritage and enjoyed music, dancing, and spending time with her church family at Keswick United Methodist Church. She loved flowers and tending to her garden, finding happiness in the beauty she created and cared for. She also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, especially sharing cookies, homemade strawberry jam, and her famous banana bread with the people she loved.

Above all else, Joyce cherished her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great great grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend whose love was felt in countless ways. Her grandchildren looked forward to visits filled with special treats, walks through Suttons Bay, and trips to the marina to watch the swans. Joyce’s encouragement, laughter, wisdom, and unconditional love were gifts that shaped the lives of those around her. The memories she created will be treasured forever.

Joyce is survived by her daughter, Karen Lehman; her sister, Marlene Riley; her brother Danny Riley; her grandchildren, Jonah Lehman and Fiancé Kelsey Bridinger, Sarah Lehman, Scott VanDevelde, Cindy VanDevelde, Heidi Slack, Lance Thomas, Janet VanDevelde, and Diane Pickott, and Jessie VanDevelde; along with many beloved great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Frances Riley; her siblings, Betty Jean Burroughs, Ron Riley, and Don Riley; and her children, Nancy Thomas, Ron VanDevelde, and Wayne VanDevelde. A Celebration of Life honoring Joyce will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Keswick United Methodist Church. Guests are welcome to arrive beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Joyce’s life was a testament to faith, perseverance, service, and love. She leaves behind generations of family members, students, friends, and community members whose lives are better because of her influence. Her legacy will live on in the lessons she taught, the kindness she shared, and the love she gave so freely. She will be remembered not only for what she accomplished, but for the way she made people feel—valued, cared for, and deeply loved.

Please share condolences and memories with Joyce’s family atwww.martinson.info. Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.