Joyce Lynn Shaw, age 81 of Kalamazoo Michigan passed away peacefully on July 3rd 2026. Joyce was born in Norman Oklahoma, on June 30th 1945 to Roy and Betty Jean Fischer.

Joyce was a proud and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She is survived by her children Kevin (Katy) Rodell, Alyssa (Michael) Moss, and Anthony Shaw. Her grandchildren Anna Rodell, Alayne Newton, Amy (Zane) Turner, Mallory Newton, Allen Moss, Maxwell Moss, Piper Moss, and her 2 great granddaughters Zion and Zoe Turner.  She is also survived by her siblings Joan (Russ) Whitman, Judi (Wally) Bransen, Tim (Jill) Fischer, Laurel (Troy) Ryley, as well as her lifelong friend Sherry Malum. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Betty Jean Fischer; her sister, Janice Leptich and her brother in law Frank Leptich.

Joyce was born in Oklahoma, but grew up in the Chicago area. She remained there until her late 20's when she relocated to Rockford, Illinois. Joyce worked for Ekstrom Carlson until her 2nd child was born, then she became a stay at home mom. She loved caring for her children, taking care of the home, and was a wonderful cook. Her children and grandchildren were the greatest joy of her life. Joyce moved several more times with her family until she settled in Kalamazoo where she spent the last 28 years. She was very social, joining the welcome wagon, ladies clubs, exercise classes and bible studies.

Joyce was born with musical talent coursing through her veins. She loved to sing. She sang solos at church, sang in the choir,  sang  in the car, around the house, and even in the grocery store. She sang on the radio and in church with her sisters Jan and Joan when they were young. She could harmonize with anyone, anywhere, at anytime. She played piano beautifully. She could read music, but even more impressive was her ability to play by ear. All she needed was a small sound bite, just sing her a line, and in a few minutes she'd be able to play the whole song. Music was so ingrained in her being that even after a traumatic brain injury that left her completely dependent on care, she would still sing, harmonize, and play the piano from memory when sat in front of it.

Joyce was raised in a Christian home and attended church her entire life, her faith was very important to her. Every time she moved, she scouted out new churches and took her family every Sunday. She joined many bible studies, women's church groups, and the church choir. As she got older, and didn't get out as much, she watched church every week on TV. She loved Jesus and knew He was her savior. We know she is pain free, and singing to her hearts content up in heaven. 

Joyce's family will be having a private celebration of life. We would like to thank all who have reached out to express their condolences during this difficult time.