Joyce Ritchie Garner

December 26, 1945 - September 7, 2016

Joyce Ritchie Garner, 70, of Houston entered the Church Triumphant Wednesday, September 7, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. Joyce was born December 26, 1945 in Austin, TX to Billie and Margaret Ritchie. She is preceded in death by her parents and is survived by her husband of 49 years, John H Garner; children, Justin Garner & wife Jennifer, Jeremy Garner & wife Britain; grandchildren, Chase, William, Turner and Evelyn. She is also survived by her brother, Warren Ritchie & wife Susie; niece, Katherine Garner and nephews, Ben and Scott Ritchie as well as her beloved dog Jax. Joyce grew up in Austin and attended the University of Texas where she earned her Bachelor Degree in Business Administration and received a teaching certificate. Joyce was a business studies teacher at the high school level. Throughout her life she loved volunteering, serving on the PTA, the Houston Junior Forum and the Museum of Natural Science where she was a docent. She was an active member of Memorial Drive United Methodist Church for nearly 40 years where she was a Stephen Ministry leader, leader of the New Members Team, member of the Genesis Sunday School Class and recently played an integral part in the Kneeler Project. Joyce was a proud member of the Texas Exes and loved her UT football. She loved playing card and board games, especially Mahjong and bridge, having essentially introduced west Houston to Mahjong. She and her husband John traveled to more than 50 countries on all 7 continents. She was an expert at needlepoint and made many keepsakes for her family over the years. Joyce was a thoughtful, outgoing and optimistic woman who is described by those who knew her as a joyful, giving spirit. She genuinely cared about other people and had the extraordinary ability to create a meaningful relationship with anyone she met. Above all, she loved her family and adored her grandchildren. Joyce was truly loved by those who knew her and will be greatly missed. A Memorial Service celebrating Joyce’s life will be held Monday, September 12, 2016 at 2:00 PM at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, 12955 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77079. A reception will follow services in Friendship Court. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Caring Forever Foundation of Memorial Drive United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.