Joyce Elaine Schierloh was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on November 5, 1954, to Harold and Willene Schierloh. When she was five, her father's job took the family to Houston, Texas, where Joyce grew up.

Joyce graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism in 1978.

She was a responsible and respected employee in various work settings over the years—as a teller at University Savings; as Receptionist/Clerk for MacGregor Medical Association; in various retail positions, including at Hallmark and Battelstein's; and as Receptionist/Clerk for Feste Companies. Following her work years, she enjoyed volunteering, usually at libraries and was named Volunteer of the Month at Barbara Bush Library.

Joyce was creative, as evidenced in her love of fashion and her love of decorating. And she loved to shop more than anything and was always proud of the bargains she would find.

Joyce grew up in the Lutheran Church, was baptized at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and confirmed at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Houston. She later was a member of several Baptist churches, singing in the choir at Second Baptist in Houston. Her faith was very important to her, and she loved to read the Bible daily.

Joyce faced so many mental health and physical challenges throughout most of her life, but she never complained. She had a positive spirit and made people smile. She could always find things to be grateful for.

Joyce dearly loved her family above all else. She was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother, Bruce Harold Schierloh. She is survived by her sister Vicki Bigham and husband George; niece Amanda Hill and husband Patrick and their children, Makenzie and Logan.

For those wishing to do so, memorial contributions may be made to The Bruce Schierloh Memorial Scholarship Endowment, supporting students in their studies and preparation for the ministry - Concordia University Texas, Attn: Advancement Office, 11400 Concordia University Dr, Austin, TX 78726 (or at www.concordia.edu/makeagift - select "Other" under gift designation and fill in: The Bruce Schierloh Memorial Scholarship Endowment) – or to a charity of choice.