Joyce Rose Gurtner

Joyce Rose Gurtner January 19, 1939 - May 24, 2025 Joyce Gurtner, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on January 19, 1939 to Arthur and Martha Woolley of Summitville, Indiana, Joyce was raised with strong values of faith, family, and service. She carried those values with her throughout her life, becoming a steady and nurturing presence to all who knew her. Joyce dedicated her life to her family, her faith, and her students. As a high school math teacher, she touched countless lives with her patience, kindness, and deep commitment to education. She believed in the power of education and made a lasting difference in the lives of many. Joyce was a woman of strong faith, guided daily by her devotion to Christ. Her warmth, compassion, and quiet strength left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. Joyce loved to be active in the church. For many years, she played piano while Jan led the music. They both participated in many kids’ activities including Awana, Sunday school, VBS, and church camp. Joyce and Jan also loved to travel. They enjoyed many trips and cruises with their good friends Jim and Patty Rhoads. In addition, many family trips were lovingly planned, including her favorite place- Oceanside, CA. Although Arizona was where Joyce called home, many trips to Indiana to visit family and friends were made throughout the years. She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Jan Gurtner; her children, Bret Gurtner (Sara) and Joni Burriss (Randy); her grandchildren, Angelic Miller (Mike), Skylar Burriss (Melaina), Casey Gurtner(Coral), Megan Burriss, Madelyn Burriss, Ethan Gurtner, and Dawson Gillen; and her great-grandchildren, Henry and Carter Miller, and Lennon Burriss. Joyce's love and guidance will live on in each of them. A celebration of life will be held on June 14th at 2:00 pm, at Open Door Baptist Church in Prescott Valley. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to the support and research of Alzheimer’s disease at donorservices.alz.org Joyce's legacy of faith, love, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.