Joyce Charlotte Whilden

Joyce Whilden of Traverse City, Michigan, formerly of Grand Rapids, age 91, passed away on June 3, 2023. She was born to Frances and Vera (Bunker) Longieliere on June 1, 1932, in Clare, MI.

After graduating high school, Joyce married Henry Whilden in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where they raised their family and where she worked for Lear Siegler for over forty years before her retirement.

Joyce loved many things in life-- crafting, especially crocheting and sewing, gardening, and above all, her family. She really loved the family reunions and get-togethers on Duck Lake.

Joyce is survived by her children Thomas (Deb), Richard (Lori) and Patricia (Jill) Whilden; step-sons Henry (Angela) and David (Gwen) Whilden; grandchildren Michael, Stacy, Eric, Ryan Whilden and Kearsten Sanders, step-grandchildren Kim, Chris "Shawn", Brenda, Debbie, Scott, Robert and Karen Whilden; great grandchildren Emily, Kailyn, Treydan, Alexa, Graham and Case; and one great-great grandson on the way, who will be the fifth generation; siblings Larry Longieliere, Carol (Kenneth) Smith, Alvin (Linda) Longieliere, and Dennis Bunker; and many nieces, nephews, dear friends and other beloved members of the family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and brothers James, Robert and Charles.

Cremation has taken place and her family will celebrate her life privately.

Those wishing to offer an expression of sympathy are encouraged to consider the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 456 Cherry Street, SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, or online at: https://www.abvimichigan.org/your-help/donate-now/ ; or to Meals on Wheels of Northwest Michigan, 3964 Three Mile Road, Traverse City, MI 49686, or online at: http://mealswheelslove.org/donate/