Joyce Mann Ford, 86, of Baldwinsville, NY, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, after a long battle with dementia.
Joyce was the beloved mother of Michael Ford (Suzanne) of Inman, SC, and cherished grandmother to Heather Ford (William) of Charlotte, NC, and David Ford (Rebecca) of Denver, CO. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Ford, and her siblings: Vernerd Mann, Elma Hunt, and Arlene Barnett, as well as her parents, John and Eva Mann.
Born and raised in Cato, NY, Joyce married the love of her life, Carl, in 1957. The couple honeymooned in Williamsburg, VA, a place they would return to many times over the years. In 1973, they settled in their dream home in Baldwinsville, NY, where they raised their family. Joyce was a dedicated mother, balancing her role at home with her work as a secretary at Van Buren Elementary School.
Joyce’s love of people and socializing was legendary. She was a true "social butterfly," hosting gatherings and befriending everyone in the neighborhood. She found immense joy in connecting with others and loved making those around her feel welcome.
In 1989, Joyce became a grandmother for the first time, and in 1991, her second grandchild arrived. Her heart overflowed with love for her grandchildren. After Carl’s passing in 1993, Joyce focused her energy on being the best grandmother she could be, creating cherished memories with them. She made every holiday a grand celebration, took trips to Williamsburg, VA, and enjoyed mall outings, game nights, concerts, and sporting events. Above all, she wanted them to feel loved and supported by their devoted Grandma.
Joyce had an enduring love for socializing, whether it was chatting with family, shopping, trying new restaurants, or watching her favorite sitcoms. She always carried a pocketbook and took pride in looking her best, often with her hair styled to perfection. Joyce firmly believed in treating others the way you would want to be treated and often reminded those around her to cherish the time spent with family.
Joyce was an incredible wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
