WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Joyce G. Barnett Wygant, age 94, of Sturgis, passed away peacefully on the evening of Friday, August 8, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.
She was born on June 23, 1931 in Branch County, Michigan, the daughter of the late Jay and Edith (Strong) Rubley. Joyce remained a lifelong resident of Sturgis and Branch County, dedicating her life to family, care for others, and her community.
On November 27, 1952, Joyce married Buford Barnett in Sturgis. They shared many years together until his passing on October 3, 2003. She later married Victor Wygant on April 9, 2005 in Union City. He preceded her in death on May 3, 2016.
Joyce had a strong passion for helping others. From 1978 to 2005, she owned and operated Barnett Adult Foster Care Home in Sturgis, providing compassionate care to those in need. She also previously worked at Sturgis Hospital and for her son at Bart’s Bait and Grocery.
In her leisure time, Joyce enjoyed traveling to casinos, playing Bingo, and completing word search puzzles. Above all, she found her greatest joy in caring for others, a legacy she leaves behind in the hearts of all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughter, Gloria (Andy) Tate of Sturgis; two sons, Larry (Carol) Barnett and Michael (Lorraine) Barnett, both of Sturgis; eleven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; step-daughter Vickie (Randy) Reinoehl of Sturgis; step-son Thomas (Birgit) Wygant of Athens; several step-grandchildren and step-great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Phyllis Smoker of Bronson; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; grandson Larry Barnett; sisters Ruby Kehoe and Dorothy Rubley; brothers Marshall Rubley, Richard Rubley, and Worthy Rubley; and stepson Scot Wygant.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial graveside service and interment will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, August 22nd at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan. Pastor Rob Schwartz of Central Christian Church in Battle Creek will officiate.
Memorial donations in Joyce’s honor may be directed to: Three Rivers Health Hospice, 711 S. Health Parkway, Three Rivers, MI 49093.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis. Relatives and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences online at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
