The Excelsior Standard, Apr. 26, 2024

Joyce Fagan

Joyce Ann (Wray) (Butler) Fagan passed away peacefully April 16, 2024, with her family lovingly by her side. Born May 25, 1943, to Orville Kenneth Wray and Mary Eugenia Neal, Joyce lived much of her young life in Maryville with her three siblings, Ronald, Steven and Phyllis; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and lifelong friends nearby. Joyce met the father of her beloved children, Robert (Bob) Butler, in Graham. Joyce and Bob spent nearly 20 years building a business together and starting their beautiful family. They were forever proud of their four children: Debbie, Christie (Jim), Stacy (Chris) and Robert Shannon (Yadira).

Joyce was involved in her community. She was an active member of the local PTA and the Missouri Jaycees. Joyce was a Girl Scout leader and volunteered in the Big Sisters program, helping children experiencing adversity. Throughout her life, Joyce often worked to raise money for those in need.

Joyce joyfully became a grandmother to 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She loved nothing more than to be surrounded by them, preferably under the canopy of a big, beautiful tree with a campfire nearby .

Joyce was strong-willed and stubborn at times, but she also had an enormous heart and a wonderful sense of humor. She remained optimistic, even when facing great hardships. She was generous, loyal, compassionate and brave. She enjoyed serving her neighbors and anyone she considered to be “good peo ple.”

In typical Joyce fashion, no pomp and circumstance will be deployed for her final farewell. Her family will gather privately. They will share her stories, laugh, cry, hold hands and embrace. They will thank God for her, for she has given them their greatest gifts: her love, their lives and each other.