Joyce Elaine Quaney

Joyce Elaine Quaney passed away quietly on October 26, 2024, surrounded by her family, following a long struggle with her health.

Joyce was born in San Diego, California to James Robert Quaney and Mabel Huffy on September 29, 1943, the only girl blessed to the family. 

Joyce lived in California for most of her younger years and met her future husband Robert Carter Larsen Jr, in Barstow, California. The couple was blessed with two children, Stacy and Donald. Afterwards the family moved to Washington State with their children, but later they were divorced.

Joyce and her children lived in several places, including Japan, before calling Utah her home. While in Japan, Joyce became an expert level Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging) master and was certified to teach this beautiful art. Joyce was also a master at crochet, an art that she was able to pass on to her daughter, Stacy. Many hours were spent chatting and creating beautiful afghans which were freely gifted to friends and family throughout the years.

Joyce was a member of the LDS Church and served in many callings including seminary teacher, primary teacher, and relief society presidency.

Despite all of Joyce’s accomplishments throughout her life, both professionally and personally, her greatest joy was her children. Joyce was a constant source of strength and grace despite any challenges thrown her way.

After she retired from government work, she was lucky enough to be able to spend time collecting memories by living with her son, Donald, in New York for a time, and then living with Stacy and spending top quality grandma time with her granddaughters, both here in Utah and Colorado.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mabel Quaney; her brothers: Richard, Robert, and Larry (Sr.) Quaney. Joyce is survived by her son, Donald (Lauren) Larsen (New York); daughter, Stacy (Mario) Escarcega (West Haven); granddaughters, Tiffany Elaine Schoonmaker (North Ogden) and Christine Emily Schoonmaker (West Haven); and her brother, Terry (Rita) Quaney (Las Vegas).

The family would like to thank all the medical personnel at McKay-Dee Hospital who took care of Joyce with such care and compassion.

A memorial service will be held on November 15, 2024, at 11 a.m. at 2333 South 2700 West, West Haven, Utah with a luncheon to follow. The family prayer will precede the service at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Joyce Quaney memorial fund at any America First Credit Union branch, or by mail to PO Box 9199, Ogden, Utah, 84409, or call 800-999-3961 and donate using a debit or credit card.