Joyce Deane Williams

Joyce Deane Van Matre Kofford Williams, born January 14, 1933, to Dean Wilbur and Idella May Miller Van Matre in Redmond, Oregon, peacefully passed away on April 23, 2024, in Draper, Utah. She was 91 years old. Joyce was united in marriage to E. J. "Mike" Kofford on March 25, 1951. Together they raised three children: Vickie Deane Christensen (Duane) of Logan, Utah; Michael Dale Kofford (Debi) of Riverton, Utah; and Larry Bert Kofford (Diane). Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mike (November 6, 1983) and her son, Larry (September 6, 2013). Later in life, Joyce found a special happiness with Merrill Max Williams of Bend, Oregon, whom she married on April 28, 1990. Together, they shared a love of travel, visiting all 50 states and several foreign countries. They served as senior missionaries in the Texas Houston East Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a service that brought them great fulfillment. Joyce was a dedicated resident of Central Oregon for most of her life, drawing inspiration from the stunning Cascade Range and the natural beauty surrounding her. Her exceptional work ethic was evident from a very early age, particularly in her career positions in administration at Central Oregon Community College and Lane Community College. She served a term as president of the Administrative Workers Union at Lane Community College, demonstrating her commitment to her colleagues. A woman of many talents, Joyce was known for her beautiful singing voice and her love for gospel music. She generously shared her talents and warm spirit with those around her, offering comfort and support to all who crossed her path. Her trademark hugs were cherished by family and friends alike. Joyce leaves behind a legacy of love and service, deeply impacting her extensive posterity and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be remembered for her strength, unyielding love, and unwavering faith. Her soul-deep kindness and friendliness made her a friend to all. Like her father before her, Joyce “knew no stranger.” Joyce's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by her family, friends, and community. Joyce’s family extends their deep gratitude to all who served Joyce so well in her final weeks and days at Spring Gardens Assisted Living Center, in Draper, Utah, with a special thanks to her attendants and hospice care providers in the Memory Care Unit. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, in the meetinghouse of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 1260 NE Thompson Drive, in Bend. Family can be greeted at the viewing beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at 10:00 am on Monday, May 13, in Redmond Memorial Cemetery.

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Joyce Deane Williams

January 14, 1933 - April 23, 2024