Joyce Ellen Winstanley

Joyce (Joy) Ellen Winstanley, 66, of Traverse City, formerly of Iron Mountain, Michigan, passed away on December 31, 2014. She was born in Detroit, MI on July 15, 1948 to Robert and Mildred Hancock. Joy grew up in Livonia, MI. Joy was passionate about art, music, antiques, and horticulture. She loved her lavender. It wouldn't be surprising to find it hanging all over her house drying and waiting for her to make sachets. Joy could make anything grow and found so much enjoyment in showing off her green thumb to her sister Jeanne. She adored her little Scottie dog Max and found much peace in their daily walks together. She loved to volunteer her time to those less fortunate whether it be with her church or local organizations. Joy is survived by her sister Jeanne Degenhardt of Traverse City, MI, her son David Todd Hayes of North Dakota, her two daughters Monique Varsames of New York and Tashia Lynn Winstanley of Ypsilanti, MI, and her son-in- law Paul Varsames, She is also survived by her 3 grandchildren, Louis Robert Varsames, Isabella May Winstanley and Olivianah Marie Luongo, her nephews Richard Degenhardt and Christopher Degenhardt, her great niece Leah Christine Degenhardt and her great-great niece Lilea Christine Miflin. Preceding her in death were her parents Robert and Mildred Hancock of Gaylord MI, her granddaughter Chelsea Faith Hayes-Gregory of Cheboygan, MI, and her first-born son Robert Louis Hayes (1965). Joy always celebrated life in a unique and special way. She would have wanted all of us to remember her with love and joy in our hearts. A memorial service in her honor will be held over until the summer 2015 at one of her favorite places called Mullet Lake, located in Topinabee, Michigan. The exact date has not been determined. If anyone should like to attend this celebration of her life, please email Monique Varsames at mwin1128@aol.com , write her at P.O. Box 373 South Salem, NY 10590 or you may call her at 914.906.0042 for exact details. Joy was an extraordinary soul, colorful in all ways. She had a true passion for life itself. May our mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and dear friend forever be at peace. We love you to the stars and back. We love you more!!! “When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a Joy”. Rumi “Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy”. Thich Nhat Hanh

Joyce Ellen Winstanley

July 15, 1948 - December 31, 2014