Obituary of Joyce Pickard

Joyce E. Pickard, 97, peacefully passed away at Cortland Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center on February 12, 2025, and is now with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Born in Walton, New York, to Morris and Helen Utter Tripp, Joyce went on to study nursing at Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY. She met her beloved husband, Robert F. Pickard, and they were married on October 5, 1947, at the First Baptist Church in Oneonta, NY. Together, they moved to Apalachin, NY, where they spent 58 wonderful years. Joyce dedicated herself to raising her family while also working at IBM in Owego, NY, for the majority of her career.

First Baptist Church of Johnson City was Joyce’s church family for many years before moving to Dryden, NY, where she was a faithful member of Dryden Baptist Church. Joyce found great joy in teaching the Bible. Her passion for spreading the Gospel was evident through her leadership of Christian women’s groups and regular Bible studies held in her home. Joyce’s love for gardening, family gatherings, and her positive, joyful spirit brightened the lives of all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert Pickard, and her sister, Maureen Gage (Millard).

She is survived by her children: Ronald Pickard (Paula), Kenn Pickard (Debbie Shepardson), Bryon Pickard (Dennie), Joanne Sterling (Randy), and Theodore Pickard (Lynn); 12 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; her sister, Fay Frey (John); as well as many other loving relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at Dryden Baptist Church, 138 Virgil Road, Dryden, NY 13053.