Joyce Arlene Frantz, 86, North Manchester, entered the Kingdom of Heaven on April 2, 2024. The beloved daughter of Titus and Fannie (Oswald) Yoder and cherished younger sister of Carol, Joyce was born December 20, 1937, in Goshen, Indiana.
Joyce grew up in Goshen where she attended the local Mennonite church and graduated from Bethany Christian High School in 1956. Following graduation, Joyce was invited on a blind date by her best friend. Little did she know at the time, but that date was with the future love of her life, Myrl Frantz. The two became engaged at Christmastime in 1957 and married on April 12, 1958, in the Eighth Street Mennonite Church in Goshen. The couple shared nearly sixty-two wonderful years together and were blessed with two children, Wade and Wanda, as well as four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. They enjoyed traveling and worshiping at First Brethren Church in North Manchester, where they both were members.
Joyce was a staple in the Manchester Community School system for twenty-three years. She worked as a secretary at Manchester Elementary School until her retirement in 1995. She also began working part-time as a cashier for Metzger Auctions in 1992. Joyce was outgoing and loved making others feel welcome. She always had a warm smile to offer those around her. Joyce was a member of the Nurture and Care Committee at First Brethren Church, where she organized the greeters for Sunday morning services. She also volunteered with Meals on Wheels.
The loving memory of Joyce Frantz will be forever cherished by her children, Wade Allen (Stephanie) Frantz, Warsaw, and Wanda Ann (Thomas) Yankey, Ypsilanti, Michigan; sister, Carol Munson, North Manchester; four grandchildren, Erica (Raul) Frenes, Joshua Frantz, Joel Yankey, and Nathaniel Yankey. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Myrl Frantz, on April 7, 2020; and great-grandson, Colbee Frantz.
A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Oaklawn Cemetery, 600 Beckley Street, North Manchester, Indiana.
For those who wish to honor the memory of Joyce Frantz, memorial contributions may be made to First Brethren Church, 407 North Sycamore Street, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.
The family of Joyce Frantz has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
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