Joyce Ann Vantell

On Monday, October 2, 2023 at approximately 9:00 a.m., Joyce Ann Vantell entered her Heavenly Eternal Home, receiving her healing in the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was 79 years old. Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Gerald L. Vantell, their children Larry Kisamore(Shari), Lisa Schank(Alan), and Jenna Sibley(Michael); eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren; as well as siblings Patricia "Jeanne" Rosette Dulin(Richard) of Canton, OH, Bernice Fike(Blaine) of Fairmont, WV, and Clarence "Buck" Knotts of Canton, OH. She was preceded in death by her parents Guy and Ethel Knotts, sister Thelma "Mae" Fisher, sister-in-law Carol Knotts, and great-grandson Grayson Schank. Joyce was born on July 5th, 1944 in Bayard, WV, and was the youngest of five children. She grew up on their family farm, and later moved to Canton, OH. She worked several retail jobs, including one at Kmart in Massillon, OH, where she met and fell in love with her soul mate, Gerald, in 1978. Gerald and Joyce married a year later, on August 11, 1979; and raised 3 children together. Joyce also worked as a secretary at Dayspring Church of God in Cincinnati, OH, and later as a sales associate for Belk, from which she retired. Joyce enjoyed reading, especially her Bible and her Max Lucado books and devotionals. She was very creative and artistic, often helping create decorations and centerpieces for church functions; and has painted multiple paintings in oil and watercolor, as well as several wall murals. She also enjoyed crocheting, making everything from coasters, beach bags, and stuffed Holiday decorations to blankets, lovies, and outfits for her great-grandchildren. Joyce's beautiful smile was infectious, her heart kind and compassionate, and her spirit sweet, caring, and empathetic. She was full of wisdom and grace. Most important though, she had a strong faith and belief in her salvation through her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; and she was not ashamed or afraid to share that faith with others. She and Gerald shared a passion for leading people to Christ, and ministered together through the Good News Club, Door Knocking , and in Salvation Tents at church events and at the Horry County Fair. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Joyce is scheduled for 11:00 A.M., Thursday October 5th, 2023, at Forestbrook Baptist Church in Myrtle Beach, SC. Friends and Family are invited to a Visitation from 10:00 - 11:00 A.M at Forestbrook Baptist Church, as well a Graveside Ceremony at Hillcrest Cemetery immediately following the Memorial Service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joyce's memory to the Forestbrook Baptist Church Youth Ministry. The Family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses, aides, and staff of Crescent Hospice for their wonderful care of Joyce during her last days, and for the support given to her family during and after. A special thank you also to Margie Lee for her care and support, as well special friends Mary and Charles Daniels. The Family also thanks Forestbrook Baptist Church, Grand Strand Baptist Church, and everyone who prayed for Joyce and

Joyce Ann Vantell

July 5, 1944 - October 2, 2023