Joyce was predeceased by her parents and brothers, Ward and Paul Kipps, as well as her sisters-in-law, Beth and Betty. She is survived by her niece and nephews: John, Barbara, David (Mary Ruth), Kennedy (Caroline) and William (Trisha) Kipps; great nieces and nephews: Jonathan, Stella, Walter (Bethany), Rebekah, Nathaniel, Catherine, Tobias, Hazel, Linda and Paul Kipps; and the many extended family members who joined her biennial reunions at the family farm in Aroda where she lived throughout her life. 

Her desire to be an educator brought her to Roanoke College, where she majored in education and psychology. She received her bachelor’s degree in 1950 and began teaching 3rd and 4th grades at Criglersville Elementary School. In 1970, Joyce earned her master’s degree in special education from the University of Virginia. She taught middle- and high school special education and then high school math until her retirement after 40 years of teaching Madison County students. 

Joyce was both active in, and generous toward, the Lutheran church, her community, and her family. As an engaged Roanoke College alumna, Joyce was a class agent and helped a Liberian student start a Lutheran women’s group on campus. She knew the importance of financial aid and endowed two scholarships at Roanoke, one for international students. In 2010, she received the Roanoke College Medal, her alma mater’s highest alumni honor. 

Joyce was a life-long member of Mt. Nebo Lutheran Church in Rochelle, where she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, and served in a range of leadership roles over the years. At the state level, she was involved in the Virginia Synod Women’s Organization including a term as president. 

Joyce was active in the Madison Woman’s Club for over 25 years, including organizing bloodmobiles and canning jams and pickles for Taste of the Mountains. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Stage Alive Community Concerts, and the Retired Teachers Association. She also brought eggs and produce to MESA.

With her family, she was the constant presence in a parade of generations—caring for those ahead of her and guiding those who followed. She kept the family lore, drew the extended relatives back to the farm, and baked dozens of Christmas-dinner biscuits for as long as anyone can remember.

Joyce’s funeral service and burial will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, June 27, at Mt. Nebo Lutheran Church, 3980 Jacks Shop Rd., Rochelle, Va. A reception will follow in the parish house. The family invites memorial gifts in Joyce’s honor be made to the Joyce Kipps '50 Endowed Student Scholarship, Roanoke College, 221 College Lane, Salem, VA 24153.