Joyce Boyer-Gresham

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Joyce Goetz Boyer Gresham, who passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born in Bragg City, Missouri, on November 3, 1939, to Inez and Cordis Jones, she then spent most of her childhood growing up in Arkansas. The family later moved to Wichita, where Joyce became a proud graduate of East High School, Class of 1957. From there she made Wichita her lifelong home and built a legacy that will continue to live on through all who knew and loved her, living a life defined by resilience, hard work, unconditional love, and unwavering devotion to her family.

On March 16, 1959, Joyce married Thomas G. Goetz, and together they built a successful family business, owning and operating Wichita Shoe Supplies. After Tom's passing in 1983, Joyce courageously continued operating the business, a testament to her remarkable strength, determination, and perseverance. Not only did she continue to run this business but then proceeded to purchase and operate another, Midwest Leather in Kansas City, in 1986 with her son, Tommy.

Joyce later married Ernest R. Boyer on May 1, 1987, sharing many wonderful years together until his passing in 2010.

Following the sale of Wichita Shoe Supplies, Joyce worked for Electromech Technologies until her retirement. She also spent several years as a tax preparer with H&R Block, where her dedication, intelligence, and warm personality made a lasting impression on coworkers and clients alike.

Love found her once again when she married Gordon "Gordy" Gresham on September 14, 2019. Together they shared a beautiful chapter filled with companionship, laughter, dancing, and countless treasured memories. Their love brought renewed happiness to both of their lives and was admired by everyone who knew them.

Retirement only fueled Joyce's adventurous spirit. She loved searching for hidden treasures, buying and selling antiques, and never missed an opportunity to browse an antique shop or estate sale. She was also an avid card player, whether she was playing to win or simply enjoying the company of dear friends.

While Joyce had many accomplishments throughout her life, nothing brought her greater pride than her family. She was affectionately known to so many as "Grandma Joyce," a title she wore with pride and one that extended far beyond her own grandchildren. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome, offering love, encouragement, wisdom, and a listening ear. To many, she wasn't just called Grandma Joyce—she truly became a grandmother in every sense of the word.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Inez and Cordis Jones; her first husband, Thomas G. Goetz; her second husband, Ernest R. Boyer; her sister, Shirlene Spellman; and brother, Bill Jones.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Gordon "Gordy" Gresham; her son, Tom (Pam) Goetz; grandchildren, including Kayli, Jessica, Josh, Jordan, Aaron, Jared, and Morgan; great-grandchildren Mason, Beau, and Winsley; stepchildren, Angela (W.D.) Wheeler, Brendan (Lisa) Gresham, and Melissa Gresham; many cherished step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren; beloved nieces; extended family; and countless dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by her kindness, generosity, and love.

Joyce's legacy is one of perseverance, compassion, and unconditional love. She taught by example that strength is found in kindness, that family is built through love, and that life's greatest treasures are the relationships we nurture along the way. She welcomed everyone with open arms, celebrated life's simple joys, and created a lifetime of memories that her family will carry with them forever.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that the love of Joyce will continue to live on in every family gathering, every shared story, and every Frank Sinatra song that fills the room. Her warmth, laughter, wisdom, and generous spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Celebration of Life

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Joyce's remarkable life at the Candle Club, a place that held a special place in the hearts of Joyce and Gordy. It is only fitting that those who loved her gather in a place filled with happy memories to honor a woman who spent her life bringing people together. The celebration will be held on September 5th, times to be announced. The family hopes all who attend will come ready to celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, friendship, and unforgettable stories.

In honor of Joyce's love for animals, donations can be made to the Kansas Humane Society in lieu of flowers.

"I did it my way." — Frank Sinatra