Obituary of Louise Charlene Joyce

Louise Charlene Joyce, 81, of Burlington, a vivacious and independent spirit who embraced life on her own terms, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 25.

Charlene was born in Boston, the daughter of the late Charles and Louise (Pitts) Durant. She was educated in the North Quincy school system and graduated from North Quincy High School.

Charlene started as a secretary for Blue Cross Blue Shield in Boston and Quincy, working diligently she climbed the corporate ladder and retired as a Senior Analyst.

Charlene’s love story began at the Golden Dome, where she met the love of her life Bartley “Bart” Joyce. True to her bold and independent nature, it was Charlene who made the first move, persistently encouraging her future husband to date her until he couldn’t resist. Their partnership became a foundation of joy, humor, and steadfast love for over 54 years.

A woman of many passions, Charlene cherished her weekly outings with her circle of friends which she held near for 50 years. Wednesdays were reserved for coffee and lively conversations that covered everything from current events to the simple joys of life. She found delight in the camaraderie of their casino trips, where laughter and good times were always guaranteed.

Charlene’s love for cards, particularly cribbage, was a hallmark of her personality, as was her joy for camping and traveling. With Bart and her trusty trailer in tow, they explored the beauty of New Hampshire and spent many happy days at the Clearwater Campground. A lover of travel Charlene made unforgettable memories skiing the Alps, visiting family in Canada, and traveling to Ireland, especially Galway, a place that held a special spot in her heart.

Her nieces and nephews were among her greatest treasures. Aunt Charlene’s home was filled with laughter, adventure and lessons in card games and cooking. She delighted in taking them camping where they forged memories that will last a lifetime.

Charlene’s strong willed, no-nonsense personality was inspiring as it was endearing, she was a force to be reckoned with, a woman who knew exactly where she stood and lived unapologetically true to herself. She was a phenomenal host, especially during the holidays, when her home was filled with the warmth of family and the irresistible aroma of her cooking, a gift that will be sorely missed by all who gathered around her table.

She is survived by her loving husband Bartley “Bart” Joyce of Burlington, her nieces and nephews, Brian Mahoney and his wife Alison, Nathan Mahoney, and Genevieve Mahoney, along with many other nieces and nephews, her in-laws, brothers-in-law, John Joyce, and his late wife Joan, Thomas Joyce and his wife Mary, and a sister-in-law Maureen Joyce, sisters-in-law, Marion and Judy Joyce as well as many close friends

She was predeceased by her siblings, Margaret Mahoney and the late Denis Durant, and her in-laws, Peter Joyce, Paul Joyce and Ann Joyce.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her visiting hours on Monday, December 2, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home 43 Winn St. Burlington, a Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will follow the visiting hours starting at 12 noon at St. Margaret’s Church in St. Veronica’s Parish, 111 Winn St. Burlington. Burial will be private and at the convenience of her family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to St. Veronica’s Parish at  https://osvhub.com/saintveronicaparish/giving/funds.