IN MEMORIAM
EXPANDED EULOGIES
“In Memoriam” listings are expanded paid obituaries, phrased as the family requests, and may include enhanced information or photographs that might not fit within free death notices.
Joyce Ford
A celebration of life for Joyce Ann Ford, 73, who passed away peacefully April 16, 2025, at Harry Hines Memorial Hospice in Wichita, will be 2 p.m. April 23, 2025, at Marion Presbyterian Church.
All who knew and loved Joyce, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, are welcome to attend.
Family members received friends from 5 to 7 p.m. April 22, 2025, at the church.
Born Aug. 19, 1951, in Marion to Leslie and Doris Anderson Ford, she was a proud member of the Marion High School class of 1969 and remained deeply rooted in the Marion community throughout her life.
Joyce dedicated more than 40 years of her life to nursing in Marion County, where her compassion and care left a lasting mark on countless individuals and families.
After retiring in 2017, her passion for helping others continued as she served as a paraeducator with Marion County Special Education Cooperative.
To students and staff alike, she affectionately was known as “Grandma J,” a title she carried with pride and joy.
An avid supporter of Marion student athletes, Joyce often was seen cheering from the stands, always offering encouragement and pride in the community’s youths.
Her love and spirit were a constant presence at local events, and her support meant the world to so many.
Joyce was a devoted member of Marion Presbyterian Church, where she served faithfully as an elder and deacon for many years. Her faith and service were a guiding light in her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Leslie and Doris Ford.
She is survived by her daughter, Allison Shults (and husband Darrel); her cherished grandchildren, Bryce, Tori, and Chance; her sister, Mary Ford of Marion; her brother, Bill Ford of Southwest City, Missouri; several cousins; and a wide circle of friends and former students whose lives she touched.
Joyce’s legacy is one of unwavering love, tireless service, and boundless support. She will be remembered for her warm heart, infectious laughter, and the way she made everyone feel like family.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Marion-Florence USD 408 high school wrestling program in care of Jost Funeral Home, PO Box 266, Hillsboro KS 67063.
Online condolences at www.jostfuneralhome.com.