Joyce Parry Smith

Joyce Parry Smith was born on December 12, 1932 to Maurine and Alvarus Parry in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Parry family would include Bob, Joyce, Connie, Doug, and Rick as they were known. Joyce had a love of learning throughout her life. She graduated from East High School and the University of Utah, with a bachelor’s degree. She obtained a master’s degree in Gerontology from Weber State University.
On February 19, 1954, Joyce Parry married E. Rowley Smith in the Salt Lake Temple. This was the beginning of 48 years of marriage, and the beginning of their family. They had five children, Greg, David, Rand, Stephanie, and Corinne. Lynda has been a daughter to Joyce and a sister to the remaining siblings for many years and has assisted Joyce in all aspects of daily living.
There are 24 grandchildren, and 23 great grandchildren. For many years after the grandchildren were grown, Joyce would continue to host “birthday parties” once a month to celebrate everyone who had a birthday. Even though many children and grandchildren had moved away, Joyce continued to hold the gatherings and extend invitations to all that could attend. She loved her family and wanted them to know one another.
Whenever there was a family member who needed a place to stay, Joyce received them. She would have them stay with her for a few days, and often had family stay for even years. Joyce truly felt and showed that family came first in her heart.
Throughout her life, Joyce demonstrated a willingness to work hard and help others. She served in many positions in the Church, including the Nursery, which she said was one of her favorites. Joyce also worked as a teacher after graduating from the University of Utah. After her children were in school, she began working with the Davis County Council on Aging. She was a secretary, then a director at the Golden Years Center in Bountiful, and finally the Davis County Director on Aging. Joyce was active in volunteer work as well. She would help out at Lakeview Hospital, and the Bountiful Temple. She was also active with the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers, and served on a number of boards related to her profession. Joyce was proud of being able to volunteer for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.
Joyce will also be remembered for her sense of humor. Whether it was hiding mice, and finding them, filling potholes with fake flowers, or finding Easter eggs in October, Joyce showed what a smile and a helping hand could do for others. Throughout her life she showed her love to others through service, visiting family all over the world, and spending time with family and friends.
A special thanks to all the friends and caregivers from Cedarwood at Sandy, and Silverado Hospice, who made her last year comfortable and as joyful as possible.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, October 24, 2020 at Lakeview Cemetery.