Joyce Noreen Smith
October 13, 2012
Joyce Noreen Smith, 63, passed October 13, 2012 surrounded by her family. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 17, 2012 from 4 to 7 pm at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 18 at 1 pm at Walnut Hills United Methodist Church, 12321 Hickman Rd in Urbandale.
Joyce influenced the lives of many and was known for her loving spirit. She was born on July 12, 1949 in Deer Lodge, MT to Mildred and Daniel Estal. She graduated from Gladbrook High School and then continued her education ultimately receiving her master’s degree from ISU. Joyce retired from DMACC in 2008 as the Continuing Education Coordinator and then returned as a part-time instructor. In her free time, Joyce enjoyed spending time with her family, grandchildren and her dog, Riggs.
She will be greatly missed by her mother, Mildred Estal; husband, Al Smith; daughter, Angela (Eric) Birch; step-children, Kathy (Scott VerHuel) Smith, Cindy Punelli, David (Colleen) Smith, Julie (Paul Gaither) Nelson, and Paula (Dan) Janovy; 8 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. Joyce was preceded in death by her father, Daniel.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Kim Oaks
10/24/2012
I worked with Joyce for many years through the community college network. I always enjoyed working and visiting with her. I'm so sorry to hear about your loss - Joyce was a special person and loved life and family.
Karen Poole
10/19/2012
I worked with Joyce through the community colleges and always found her to be kind and sincere. Good memories. Sorry to hear of your loss.
Opal Current
10/17/2012
Joyce enjoyed talking about our first meeting. I worked for Iowa Dept. of Revenue and was beginning to teach tax classes to Tax Professionals and small business people. I offered to teach classes at DMACC. Joyce was skeptical since I told her the Department would pay my salary and she only had to provide space. In spite of her initial doubs, she gave me a chance -- which started a 2 decade working relationship. Thank you Joyce. You will be greatly missed.
Rick Chapman
10/17/2012
Thanks for your friendship at DMACC. Your ready smile and humor made the hassles pass more easily. I remember you fondly.
Rick Chaman
Sandi Wurster
10/17/2012
So sorry for your loss. I worked at DMACC in the Admissions Office when Joyce worked at DMACC. She always had a smile on her face and was always cordial to everyone. She is in my thoughts. May you find comfort in your wonderful memories.
Lori and Verlan Vos
10/16/2012
Thinking of you, Butch and family as you have given your lovely wife, Joyce to heaven. She always had a caring smile and the two of you were so helpful to Thelma in her long life. Our thoughts are with you as you celebrate Joyce's life.
JoAnn Bergeson
10/16/2012
I worked with Joyce for many years at DMACC, first when I was at the Ankeny Campus and later at the Newton Campus. She was a terrific lady who always had a smile and a solution to whatever problem you might have. She will be greatly missed.
Lloyd Miller
10/16/2012
How sad that Joyce passed away so young! We were colleagues at DMACC for many years. My heartfelt condolences to her family. Please know that she is in my thoughts.
Kevin & Laura Kooi and Family
10/16/2012
Angie, Eric and Family,
We are thinking of your mom and family during this difficult time. It is always difficult to describe someone's life and her impact in just a few short words here. It was her impact on the lives of your family that carries the most significance as well as her love for you. We will continue to think about your family through this difficult time.
Denise Johnson
10/16/2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Angie, Al, Mildred and all their families. I am blessed to have had Joyce in my life. She was like a second mom growing up and helped make me the person I am today. She will truly be missed! Much love to all!
Loretta McCabe
10/15/2012
Al, Angie and family, I know your hearts are broken as this amazing lady has moved on to a much greater
place. She was a great friend and a blessing to all who new her. Please know that she was loved by so many who are hurting along with you. If I can ever be of any help to any of you don't be afraid to ask. My love to you all.