Obituary of Diane A. Joyce

Diane Joyce died in her home surrounded by her family on November 14 after her most recent battle with cancer. Diane's unparalleled kindness, quick wit, and magnetic personality will be sorely missed by the many loved ones she left behind. Diane was born to Albert and Rita Martin in Lowell, Massachusetts in 1958. She was the sixth of seven siblings but quickly set herself apart as the humorous, unpredictable "wildcat" of the Martins. As Diane grew up she slowly became the nucleus of her family as her even-temper, unwavering commitment to do the right thing, and her generous capacity for forgiveness made her a strong pillar in the family. Among Diane's many accomplishments is her Associates Degree and nursing license; she was the first in her family to continue on to higher education. While attending Middlesex Community College Diane met Robbie Joyce, a handsome student who promptly revealed himself to be the love of her life. Rob and Diane dated throughout Diane's time in nursing school and after Rob decided to move to California in 1984, Diane followed. In California, Diane worked in Doctor's Offices and Hospitals. She felt a calling to work as an oncology nurse because she believed that no one needed a good nurse as much as someone suffering from cancer. In 1988, after being together for ten years, Rob and Diane married at Mission Ranch in Carmel, California in a small ceremony. In the following years Rob and Diane's family was completed with the births of Jacqueline in 1989, Jessica in 1990, and Jamie in 1991. After having children, Diane began working in the Mother and Baby unit of her hospital. Shortly after, Diane was diagnosed with breast cancer. With the help of Rob she completed her treatment. In later years Diane acted as a caregiver for her husband throughout his own struggles with cancer. Among her friends and family Diane was regarded as a woman of unbelievable strength and and was considered the go-to person for support or advice. After moving to northern California and retiring from nursing, Diane focused on bringing up her children and volunteering at her girls' schools and her church. As her kids got older, their house became a home for neighbors and friends. Diane was generous with her love and there are many who think of her as a second mother. In recent years Diane's favorite activities were vacationing in York Beach, Maine with her extended family, walking on West Cliff Drive with Rob, playing cards and other games with her daughters and their friends, and reading her Bible on her deck. Despite her years of illness Diane was perpetually positive and gracious. She had a true talent for finding the best in people and situations; her life was never absent of joy. She attracted exceptional friends and was blessed with their support during her final days. Diane is remembered as the writer, the comedian, and the rock of her family. She touched many lives and was adored by everyone she knew. We will all feel her absence. Diane is survived by her husband Rob; her daughters Jacqueline, Jessica, and Jamie; her mother Rita; and her siblings Dick, Ronnie, Kirby, Denise, Terry, Norman and their families. A memorial service will be held Saturday November 24, 2012 at Seascape Resort in Aptos. The service will begin at 11:00am and a reception will follow. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Diane's name to Hospice of Santa Cruz County or the Scotts Valley Education Foundation.