Joyce Ellen (Lewis) Austin

Joyce Ellen Austin (Lewis) of Lenexa, KS unexpectedly passed away on February 12th, 2025. She was 71 years old. The second daughter of Mary Lou and Arvil (Buck) Lewis, Joyce was born on January 9th,1954 in Kansas City, MO. Though much younger than her sister Linda, the two were very close and virtually inseparable later in life. They would often reminisce about their childhood in Kansas City and the times they spent on their grandmother’s (Granny’s) farm. Joyce graduated from Turner High School in 1972. Joyce was many things to many people- sister, daughter, cousin, aunt, friend, teammate, but her most cherished title was mother (and later grandmother). While raising her son alone she was the perfect example for what can be achieved with hard work and determination. She began her career as a secretary at Employers Reinsurance Corporation in 1982. After thirty-two years and while earning her Bachelor’s Degree from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 1996, she retired as a vice president in 2014 at the age of 60. In retirement she was able to spend more time doing what made her happy. Joyce was an avid gardener, loved music and enjoyed traveling as much as she could. But her biggest joy was watching her teams play. A lifelong Kansas City sports fan, Joyce enjoyed watching the Royals and Chiefs through many highs and lows over the years. As a retirement gift for herself she purchased season tickets for the Chiefs and attended almost every single home game for over 10 years, bringing many friends and family with her to enjoy the games together. Joyce played in the APA Pool League and was a member of many recreational pool and dart teams over the years including the Nightsticks. She was still an exceptional pool shark into her early 70’s. She is preceded in passing by her mother, father, and sister. She is survived by her son Richard Stephen Austin (Stephanie), grandchildren Thomas and Emily Austin, cousin Alice (Jim) Roscoe, niece Angela (Kenny) Davis with son Teddy, nephews Michael, Joseph and Nicholas Grippando with many great nieces and nephews, along with Steve and Teresa Graham. Joyce also leaves behind dear lifelong friends that she considered to be family. When Joyce loved, it was with all her heart. She gave freely to those in need and always saw the good in people. Because she gave to so many different organizations over the years, we ask that in lieu of flowers you donate to the charity of your choice in her honor. Celebration of life will follow at a later date.

Joyce Ellen (Lewis) Austin

January 9, 1954 - February 12, 2025