Joyce Ann Butler

Joyce Ann Butler, nee DeDell, passed away on July 28, after a long and valiant battle with dementia. Born in Syracuse, NY, in 1930, Joyce was a talented artist. She attended Oswego State College, studying to be an art teacher. But life had other plans, and in 1951 Joyce married her high school sweetheart, the late Nelson Butler. In addition to her parents and husband, Joyce was predeceased by her sister Louellen, her younger brother Harry Jr., and niece Mary Lou Walsh.
Joyce and Nelson resided in Baldwinsville where they raised four children. As part of restoring their historic Victorian home, Joyce loved hunting for antiques, art, and collectibles for decorating. In addition to art, Joyce also supported her family's profession in the printing industry. Joyce later enjoyed many years as proof reader for The Messenger, the local newspaper. Joyce devoted many years as a volunteer for McHarrie Legacy, working to help curate and create historic exhibits at the Shacksboro Schoolhouse Museum in Baldwinsville. Over the years, Joyce also sang in the St. Mary's Church choir and helped decorate the church for holidays and celebrations. Joyce and Nelson enjoyed traveling throughout New England together and always loved entertaining friends and family.
Joyce is the daughter of the late Harry Jerome DeDell and Mary (Belge) DeDell. She is survived by her four children, Lee (Marguerite), Stephen (David), Greg (Christie Ann), and Amy Jackson (Steve), grandchildren Wendell, Anna, Calvin, Max, Joclyn, Lindsay, Ethan, a great grandson Jayce, and several loving nieces and nephews. 
The family would like to thank the tremendous and dedicated staff at McHarrie Pointe and McHarrie Place who provided Joyce with excellent care. Calling hours are 4 to 7 p.m. on Wed. Aug. 1, at Gates Funeral Home, 29 W. Genesee Street, Baldwinsville. Graveside serviceswill be at Jacksonville Cemetery, Little Utica, at 11:00 on Thur. Aug 2. Donations in Mrs. Butler's name may be made to the McHarrie Life Foundation.
 

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