passed away April 5, 2015 at Ely Manor in Allegan, Michigan. She was born in Hammond, Indiana January 23, 1931 to Lee and Katherine Miller. Joyce attended Edison Elementary and graduated from Hammond High School in 1948. On April 14, 1951, she married David R. Ballard (deceased) at South Side Christian Church in Hammond. Joyce is survived by sons Mark (Toni) Ballard of Chantilly, VA and Patrick (Leslie) Ballard of Terre Haute, IN and Allegan, MI; grandchildren Britney (Gabe) Wilhite of Laguna Niguel, CA, Brynn (Marc) Dimick of San Clemente, CA and Bryce Ballard of Chantilly, VA; great grandchildren Mazie and Grady Wilhite and Sawyer, Harper, Decker and Oliver Dimick; sister and best friend forever Jan (Dr. George P.) Compton of Munster; niece Janna Allen; and nephews Dr. Eric Compton, Dr. Adam Compton, David Mengel, Jeffrey Mengel and James Mengel. Also most beloved friend and constant companion Bandi. Her sister Thelma Mengel and nephew John Mengel preceded her in death. While attending Edison and Hammond High, Joyce was always involved in music, singing in various school groups. She also started singing at South Side Christian Church at the tender age of 5 and continued singing in the church choir and for many weddings and funerals for many years. She was also employed in the dental office of Dr. George P. Compton as office manager for 27 years. Joyce was a member of the Munster-Highland Tri Kappa active and associate chapters for many years, holding various offices in both. A memorial service officiated by Pastor Sky Allen, will be held at Faith United Church, 3030 175th Hammond, IN on April 17, with visitation from 1-2 pm, and the service immediately following at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Humane Society Calumet Area, Inc. (421 45th Street, Munster, IN 46321) or Chicagoland Christian Village (6685 E. 117th Ave., Crown Point, IN 46307). Local arrangements by the Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel.