Obituaries

Joyce Elaine Gregg, age 92, of Barbeau, Michigan, died on July 22, 2025, at her home surrounded by loved ones. She was born on January 28, 1933, in Port Huron, Michigan, to Floyd and Virginia (Nicholson) Ellis.

Born and raised in Port Huron, Joyce graduated from Port Huron High School. She met the love of her life,
Palmer, while working at a diner. They were married on October 16, 1965, and shared a devoted marriage until Palmer’s passing in 1998. She was a dedicated homemaker who occasionally worked as a cook at the Wigwam and Cozy Corners restaurants. Later in life, she found companionship and joy with her significant other, Earl Beamish, who lovingly stepped into the role of “Papa” and became a cherished part of the family until his passing in 2021. Together, they enjoyed many years of camping and spending winters in Florida with family and friends.

Joyce was known for her adventurous and joyful nature, whether she was enjoying a sunny day at the beach, camping under the stars, watching for hummingbirds, or dancing to her favorite songs. She also loved playing cards and never turned down a good game. She had a special talent for bringing people together, whether she was cooking delicious food in her kitchen or having a backyard barbeque, she loved entertaining friends and family. Shopping was another favorite pastime, and she always had an eye for finding something special.

Joyce is survived by her children, Mike Gardner of Murphy, North Carolina, Larry Gardner of Marion, North Carolina, Michele Gordon of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, William (Carolyn) Gregg of Pickford, Michigan, Cathy Rye of Dafter, Michigan, Kim (Verne) Hopkins of Dafter; grandchildren, Jennifer Walker, Matthew Gardner, Jeremy Gardner, Heather Waters, Daniel Gordon, Amber Germain, Jennifer Gregg, Heather Wech, Marie Gregg, Joyce Corbiere, Jolene Lafata, Randi Huyck, Ryan Hopkins, and Jakob Hopkins; many great- grandchildren; sister, Carol Lewandowski; sister-in-law, Wilma (Ted) Brown; and her best friend, Debbie Laitinen.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Palmer; parents, Floyd and Virginia; siblings, James, Ruth, and Norm; daughter-in-law, Aileen Gardner; and significant other, Earl Beamish.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Family Life Funeral Homes, 4951 S. M-129, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. The Funeral Service will begin at 12:30 PM with the burial to follow at Oaklawn Chapel Gardens in Bruce Township where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Palmer.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Joyce’s honor to McLaren Hospice and Palliative Care – Northern, 1
Hiland Drive, Petoskey, Michigan 49770.

Family wanted to give out a special thanks to Lauren Kross and Julie French who helped care for Joyce in the last few years of her life, she thought the world of them.