Joyce Howley

Joyce Howley (Futrell), 70, of Dayton, passed away suddenly on January 4th, 2024.

Joyce was born September 18, 1953, in Dayton, Ohio to parents Howard and Mary Futrell. She came into this world alongside her twin, Joe, whom she loved and missed so very much. Much of her childhood was spent with her beloved grandparents, James and Stella Futrell. Her school years were spent in the city of Dayton, finishing at Fairmont Highschool in Kettering.

Joyce married her first husband, Robert Miller, in 1974. This union produced two daughters that would come to cause her many sleepless nights, heartbreak, frustration, laughter, joy and pride throughout her life. After her divorce in 1989, she strived to improve herself and the lives of those around her. Amidst this journey, she met and fell in love with her surviving spouse, Mark Howley. This relationship brought an extended family who welcomed her with more love than she could have ever imagined. With their support, she was able to acquire her GED and graduate from Miami Jacobs Career College, fulfilling her goal to become a nursing assistant.

When her health was unexpectedly compromised during a routine procedure, she showed more strength, courage and positivity than most people could possibly muster. Her perseverance showed in the appreciation and joy she found in the simple things of life. The beautiful flowers brought home by her loving husband and those from the abundant garden they tended together. Watching the birds and fat squirrels who visited the back yard feeders and her favorite, the hummingbirds. Keeping her nails beautiful, loving her animals, supporting her grandchildren in all they did.

She is survived by her husband, Mark Howley, daughters Michelle Miller (Julianna) and Christina Miller (Doug) and grandchildren, Alexandria, Camryn, Christopher, Billy and Bo, as well as bonus granddaughter, Jayden Barnett. Brothers Bobby and Gary Spradlin, sisters-in-law, Monica Hohl, Cindy Howley and Diane Howley and brothers-in law, Rob Hohl and Kevin Howley. As well as an abundance of beloved aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and her kitty, Fin.

She was preceded in death by her mother Mary Harper (Tidwell), father Howard Futrell, stepfather Pete Harper, mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ruth and Jack Howley, brothers Harold Futrell, Joe Futrell, Eddie Futrell, Larry Spradlin, step-brother Dallas Harper and brother-in law Brian Howley. Grandparents Joe and Myrtle Tidwell as well as James and Stella Futrell, who held a special place in her heart. Many others: aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and friends passed before her as well.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at Newcomer Funeral Home, Kettering Chapel (3940 Kettering Blvd., Kettering, OH 45439).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association and/or SICSA, in Joyce's memory.

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