Born to Roy and Velda Joyce in Thousand Oaks, California, she spent most of her early years growing up as one of 6 siblings, near Port Hueneme. They spent their time camping and enjoying time outdoors doing family activities. She Graduated from Thousand Oaks HS and spent some time in Ventura before settling into Oakview to raise her family.

She was a stay-at-home mom to her two boys, while her husband was away in the oil fields. When the boys were teens they decided as a family to move to Oregon, trying out several locations before finally settling into Silverton, Oregon. She later divorced but continued to be an active part of her son's lives, as well as her grandchildren's lives. She met her partner Terry with whom she enjoyed spending time together and watching football.

She is survived by her sisters Annie and Becky; her kids Eric and Brian; grandkids Patrick, Drake, and Isabelle; as well as 3 great grandkids.