Joyce A. Cessna 1941-2024

She was born Dec. 13, 1941, in Warren, to the late Joseph and Ruth Margaret Rausch Hayes.

After graduating from Williamsfield High School, Joyce received her RN license from St. Elizabeth School of Nursing in 1962 and a BSN degree from Youngstown State University. Her career included working in the pediatric department at St. Elizabeth Hospital, the Mahoning County Head Start Program and the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities, where she worked at both Leonard Kirtz School and the Rayen Avenue Adult Services Workshop. She retired in 2002.

Joyce was affectionately known as “Nana” by her grandchildren. She loved spending time with them and attended many of their extracurricular activities. She also enjoyed sewing, cooking and watching British TV shows. Joyce was the rock of the family that everyone turned to when they were in need. She never refused to help anyone who asked. While Joyce is at peace now, the hole left in the hearts of her family and friends will never be filled. She certainly left this world a better place.

Her husband, James, whom she married April 27, 1963, passed away Aug. 8, 2019.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her children, James Cessna, Maggie (Randy) Coleman, Joseph Cessna and Elizabeth (Curt) Speck; brother, Joe (Ruth) Hayes; grandchildren, Morgan, Taylor, Patrick, Cayden and Katie; sister-in-law, Sr. Peg Cessna, H.M.; brothers-in-law, Thomas and Jack Cessna; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved dog, Schatzi.

She was preceded in death by her brothers-in-law, Robert Cessna and William Cessna.

Family and friends may call 10 to 10:50 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 4490 Norquest Blvd., Austintown, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., celebrated by the Rev. Msgr. Peter Polando.

Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Material tributes can be made in Joyce’s memory to Hospice of the Valley Hospice House or the Dorothy Day House of Hospitality.

The family would like to thank Dr. Cynthia Kravec, the nursing staff at St. Elizabeth Youngstown 7 West and Hospice of the Valley Hospice House in Boardman for their excellent care of Joyce.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St. Boardman. Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to leave condolences for the Cessna family.

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