Joyce Loree Christians, 87, died July 27, 2024, at Good Samaritan Society-Hutchinson Village. She was born November 27, 1936, in Superior, NE, to Bruce and Abbie (Adams) Dressler.
Joyce graduated from Rock Rapids High School, Rock Rapids, IA, in 1954, where she played the alto saxophone in the high school band. She worked as the bookkeeper for Rural Water District #4 for over 40 years. In addition, she owned and operated a licensed childcare center out of her home for over 25 years. Joyce loved working on puzzle books, watching sporting events on television and in person, such as the annual NJCAA basketball tournament held at the Sports Arena. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Hutchinson, and enjoyed playing with the Chime Choir at church. Joyce was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.
On October 6, 1957, she married Edward Christians, Jr., in Rock Rapids, IA. They moved to Hutchinson from Iowa in 1966, and were married almost 58 years, before Edward died March 7, 2015.
Joyce is survived by: son, Todd Christians (Tammy) of Lowell, AR; daughter, Kelly Christians; granddaughter, Megan Christians, both of Hutchinson; great-grandchildren, Brayden Christians and Mia Holeman; and sister-in-law, Fran Fessler (Dave) of Altoona, IA.
She was preceded in death by: her parents; brother, Dean Dressler (Marion); and a granddaughter, Brandi Christians.
Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 2, 2024, at Fairlawn Burial Park, 2401 Carey Blvd., Hutchinson, with the Reverend Mik King officiating. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Elliott Mortuary. The family will receive friends prior to the graveside service, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. Friday at Elliott Mortuary.
Memorials are suggested to Hospice and HomeCare of Hutchinson, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.