Joyce L. Ramseyer

Joyce (Virkler) Ramseyer, 77, of Baldwinsville, was called home to her Lord and Savior on January 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 31, 1947, Joyce was the oldest of five children to Jesse Lewis and Mary Alice (Gates) Virkler. Raised on a farm in Baldwinsville, she developed a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the simple joys in life. She graduated from Baldwinsville High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Eastern University in St. Davids, Pennsylvania, where she further cultivated her passion for learning and deepened her faith.

Joyce’s professional life spanned several fields, reflecting her versatility and dedication. She worked for the Physics Department at Cornell University and Syracuse University. She also contributed to her community through her work at Brian’s Dry Cleaning and as an independent health aide, where her compassion and care left a lasting impact. In addition, Joyce found great joy in helping others through her role as a substitute teacher and sign language interpreter for the Baldwinsville School District.

Joyce was a devoted member of the Baldwinsville First United Methodist Church, where she found spiritual support and fellowship. Her faith was an integral part of her life, and she cherished the opportunity to serve others within the church community. One of her greatest pleasures was hosting church services for the residents at Syracuse Home and Park Terrace, pouring love and care into these gatherings to ensure those in her care felt valued and uplifted.  Joyce was also known for her love of gardening, where she found peace and purpose in cultivating the earth. She took great pride in watching her garden bloom year after year.

An avid singer, Joyce loved sharing her voice with others, whether in church or at home. She lived her life by the values she held dear: kindness, compassion, and an unwavering faith in God. Joyce cherished the four seasons of Central New York, finding beauty in each one and viewing them as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life.

Joyce’s most cherished role was that of wife, mother, and grandmother. She is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, Dr. George Ramseyer, and their four children: Jacob, Frederick (Maureen), Janet (fiancé Jesse Pabon), and Katharine. Joyce’s heart overflowed with love for her two grandchildren, Ruby and Lydia, who brought her immeasurable joy and pride.

She was predeceased by her parents, Jesse Lewis and Mary Alice (Gates) Virkler. Joyce is also survived by her sisters, Gwen and Brenda, and her brothers, Thomas and Jack. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that will continue to inspire her family and friends for years to come.

Joyce’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her unwavering faith, generous spirit, and loving nature will be remembered always. She touched countless lives through her actions, her words, and the way she lived her life with grace and humility. Joyce will be deeply missed, but her memory and the love she shared will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 31 from 4 -7 p.m. at the Gates Funeral Home, 29 W. Genesee St., Baldwinsville.  A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 1 at 10:00 a.m. in the Baldwinsville First United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Baldwinsville Food Pantry.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joyce L. Ramseyer, please visit our floral store.