Joyce M. Simpson

Surrounded by love and family, Joyce Madine Simpson passed away peacefully June 16, 2022, at her daughter’s home in Pullman at the vibrant, youthful age of 87, joining her husband, John; and son, “Budd”.

She was born Jan. 26, 1935, in Bull Swamp, S.C., in her family home and spent most of her younger years there, a true “southern belle” at heart.

Joyce married Archie Catron and had three children — Cheryl, Sharron and Archie Jr. (known as “Budd”).

Archie Sr.’s military career moved the family around the country and eventually to Idaho. Sometime later, Joyce made the decision to raise her three children on her own.

While working at Sears Roebuck in Moscow, Joyce met the love of her life, John Bonwell Simpson. They married in 1967 and John brought his children, Joni, Janet and Rick to the family.

They were blessed with another daughter, Carolyn, and proceeded to spend 52 years together. They lived at the iconic house on the south end of Main Street in Colfax, and then on their dream farm on Penawawa Road.

In the country, Joyce flourished, spending her time in her garden, ranching cows and wrangling bulls.

Joyce also ran a day care in Colfax for 30 years, cherishing every child whom she was entrusted with. Joyce entertained her loved ones with her storytelling and showcasing her flexibility skills for all to admire. Through her countless trips back south, Joyce spent many years gaining extensive knowledge of her family’s history through her genealogy research and graveyard hopping.

Joyce was a devoted & lifetime member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The highlight of her week was attending church and worshipping.

She will always be loved by her children Cheryl (Rick) Baker, Sharron (Ron) Davis, “Budd” (Laura) Catron, Joni (Ben) Johnson, Janet “JK” (Gary) Kessler, Carolyn (Greg) Simpson-Struble; grandchildren, Nikki (Todd) Halbert, Brigette (Jake) Moody, Ryan Davis, Kyle (Ashley) Davis, Cody Davis, Justin Catron, Kelsey Davis, Veronica Struble, Naomi Struble, and John David (Jessica) Ivey; as well as 12 great-grandchildren.

Joyce was widely known as “Grandma Cow,” the name given to her by her grandchildren and by the many who knew and loved her. She will be greatly missed by all whose lives she touched. Her voice will forever be heard echoing through the hills and mountains of the places she called her home.

The memorial service for Joyce will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 24, 2022, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Colfax, Wash. She will be laid to rest next to her husband, John, in Pine City Cemetery.

On-line condolences may be made at http://www.corbeillfuneralhomes.com.

Corbeill Funeral Home in Colfax is caring for the family.