Joyce D. LaVallee, 68, of New Castle, passed away on the evening of Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at home surrounded by her loving family following a courageous battle with cancer.
She was born on November 15, 1954, in New Castle, Indiana, a daughter of the late Clifton and Lois (Helm) Groce.
Joyce was a 1973 graduate of New Castle Chrysler High School. She married the love of her life, Rickey L. LaVallee, on November 20, 1978. Joyce was a homemaker and also worked a variety of jobs. She was artistic, and enjoyed painting, drawing, working word puzzles, and drinking coffee with her special friend, Jody. She also loved spending time in her flower garden but most of all spending time with her family and especially grandchildren.
Those left to cherish Joyce’s memory include her husband of 44 years, Rickey L. LaVallee; two daughters, Darlene D. Groce of Hagerstown and Valene L. LaVallee of New Castle; four grandchildren, Daphne Romphf, Levi, Jeri, and Jami Wesner; a great-granddaughter, Bella Faye Wesner; two sisters, Evelyn Burkett of Branson, MO, and Gloria (Donnie) Guinn of New Castle; two brothers, Steve Groce of Morriston, FL, and David (Peggy) Groce of New Castle, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by a daughter, Amanda Dawn LaVallee; two sisters, Virginia Wilson and Fran Fisher, and a brother, Ernest Ray.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm Monday, January 23, 2023 at Sproles Family Funeral Home with Pastor Paul Davis officiating. Burial will follow in McCray Cemetery.
Friends may call from 11:00 am until the time of service Monday at the funeral home.
You may offer the family a personal condolence at www.sprolesfamilycares.com.
The Sproles family and staff are honored to serve the family of Joyce LaVallee.