Sanford- Joyce Marie Valentine

Joyce Marie Valentine passed away peacefully with family near on December 23, 2024, in Alamosa, Colorado. Born on January 8, 1943, in Provo, Utah, Joyce's life was a testament to her unwavering kindness and dedication to her family, her students, and her community.

Joyce's time in Provo was brief, moving with her mother to Alamosa, Colorado, as an infant. It was in the SLV where she would build her life and legacy. A proud graduate of Alamosa High School in 1960, Joyce continued her education at Adams State University, earning a Master's Degree in Special Education. Her commitment to learning and growth was evident in her long and fulfilling career as a Special Education and Music teacher in the Sanford School District, from which she retired after many years of distinguished service.

Beyond the classroom, Joyce's talents and interests were many. Her love for music and dance was profound, her appreciation for the arts extended to painting and sculpture, while her domestic skills shone in her cooking and sewing. Being a fiercely private individual, Joyce honed many of these skills quietly in her home. She dedicated countless hours to practicing her personal piano. She left behind a collection of remarkable oil paintings. While being incredibly reserved with her talents, Joyce did take the opportunity to share them in service to her church, community, and students. She served as her church's organist, patiently provided piano lessons to individual students, taught cooking lessons as a 4-H leader, and was known to give her grandchildren gifts of individual lessons in the varying areas of her skillsets.

An active member of the LDS church, Joyce's faith was a cornerstone of her life. Alongside her late husband, she served a Church Educational Systems Mission and carried out the duties of an LDS Temple Worker. Her influence on the lives she touched was immeasurable, and her legacy of nurturing and guiding young minds will be remembered by all who knew her.

Joyce's family was the center of her world. She is survived by her loving sisters, Leora Janda and RoeAnn Davis; her brother, Warren Davis; her adoring daughters, Lisa Larsen, Laurie (Larry) Englehardt, Christy (Tom) Keys, Carla (Andrew) Miller, Cathy (Garth) McGinnis; and her son, Stephen (Rebeckah) Valentine. Her legacy of love continues through her 18 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Harold and Mary; her beloved husband, James Valentine; and her brother, Gerald.

Joyce Marie Valentine lived gently, quietly leaving her mark on the hearts of those who knew her through her talents and love. Her spirit, a blend of grace and warmth, will be deeply missed yet celebrated by all who were fortunate enough to have been a part of her life's journey.

A visitation will be held from 10:00-10:45 on Monday, December 30, 2024 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Sanford First Ward with a Funeral Service at 11:00. Dedication of the grave will follow the services at Sanford Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to American Parkinson Disease Association or Dementia Society of America.

Rogers Family Mortuary is in the care of the arrangements. To leave online condolences, tributes, and words of comfort for Joyces family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com