Joyce Edythe Anderson, age 80, of McKinney, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, December 28, 2022. Born in Providence, Rhode Island to Albert and Edythe (Hadley) Fairbrother on October 24, 1942, Joyce graduated from Coventry High School and received her bachelor's degree in child development from the University of Rhode Island. She married her childhood sweetheart, Arthur Anderson, on August 1, 1964 in Coventry, Rhode Island, and together they had two children, Arthur III and Rebecca. The family moved to Arlington, Texas in 1980.
Joyce was a beloved mother, grandmother, and advocate for young children. She dedicated her career to improving the lives of children, retiring as Vice President of Education at Children's Choice Learning Center and serving on numerous boards of directors, including Clayton Youth Enrichment Services and Arlington Women's Shelter. She also had the honor of serving on a presidential task force for President Clinton to advocate for the importance of early childhood education and for childcare teachers. Joyce's true joy in life was spending time with her family and traveling to her favorite places, including Hawaii, Switzerland, the English countryside, and several shopping trips with her daughter to Maine. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Joyce is survived by her husband of 58 years, Arthur Anderson, Jr. of McKinney, Texas; son, Arthur Anderson, III and wife, Lori and their daughter, Madison all of Fort Worth, Texas; and daughter, Rebecca Penn and husband Ryan and their daughter, Ashley all of McKinney, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Edythe Fairbrother, sister, Karen Lavoie, and niece, Bethanie Lavoie.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Joyce's memory to the Alzheimer's Association. Please keep Joyce and her loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
A memorial service is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at the Rejoice Lutheran Church, 12000 Independence Parkway, Frisco, Texas 75035.