Joyce Stears, 89

Patricia Joyce Stears, age 89, of Constantine, passed away peacefully after an extended illness on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at Sparrow House Assisted Living in Sturgis. She was born November 25, 1933 in South Bend, a daughter of Fred and Josephine (Roth) Greer. Joyce graduated from Constantine High School in 1951. On March 29, 1952 she married James R Stears in Constantine. Together they had 4 children. He preceded her in death March 13, 2008.

Joyce was a hairdresser for more than 50 years. She owned and operated Joyce’s Hair Passions in Alden and Constantine. Joyce was an artist, weaver, quilter, and painter.  She was a fabulous cook, loved gardening, and was a long time member of Meeks Mill Garden Club. Joyce loved her family and her cats, Missy & Pumkin. She and James loved traveling and camping.

Surviving are her daughters Rebecca (Rick) Steiner, Cindy (Brady) Parker, son Steven Stears, daughter in law Susan Stears, 8 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, 5 great great grandchildren with another 2 on the way.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, husband James, eldest son Dennis J Stears in 2012, and sisters Rosalee Hershberger and Sandra Greer.

The final year of her life, Joyce lived at Sparrow House. The staff are angels, and Joyce’s family would like to express their thanks to all the staff, especially Libby, Bailey, Brenda and Anna, and also to Centrica Care Navigators Hospice.

Relatives and friends will be received Wednesday October 11th from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at Eley Funeral Home in Constantine, and also at Constantine United Methodist Church on Thursday from 1 to 2 PM, with Memorial Services following at 2:00. Pastor Karen Wheat will officiate. Interment of ashes will be in Constantine Township Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Sparrow House or Centrica Care Navigators Hospice. Sign Joyce’s online guest book and leave a message for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.