Joyce D. Ashby

Joyce D. (White) Ashby, age 99 years, a resident of rural Golconda, Illinois, passed away Friday morning, November 10, 2023, at 1 AM at her home. Joyce was born February 1, 1924 in the Cottage Grove community in Saline County Illinois. She was the daughter of Isaac E. and Anna (Rehm) White. Joyce was united in marriage to Colonel Leland Ashby, Jr. in 1944 at the First United Methodist Church in Eldorado, Illinois. He preceded her in death on October 4, 2002. Survivors include – several nieces and nephews; and a longtime dear friend, Barbara Studley, of Vienna. In addition to her parents and husband, Joyce was preceded in death by: her son – Douglas Ashby; a grandson – Chad Ashby; as well as brothers and sisters. Joyce was a member of the graduating class of 1942 from Equality (Illinois) High School. She earned a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Illinois. Joyce was a lifelong educator. She taught elementary education at Bunker Hill and Gillespie, Illinois until her retirement. Following her retirement, Joyce continued her love of education by serving as a volunteer tutor in the Pope County School System. Joyce was very community minded. She served as an American Red Cross volunteer. Joyce was a member of the Illinois Retired Teacher’s Association and locally attended the meetings of the Pope County Retired Teacher’s Association. She was also a member of the Red Hat society. Joyce, along with her husband, operated the Pine Meadows Christmas tree farm in rural Pope County for many years. In her spare time, Joyce enjoyed reading, flower gardening, she particularly enjoyed raising daylilies, as well as watching classic western television programs and movies. Joyce was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Golconda. Visitation will be conducted Tuesday afternoon, November 14, 2023, from 3 PM until 5 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Following the time of visitation, there will be a prayer service led by Elder Janet Proctor. Private interment will be held at a later date in Camp Butler Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois. Memorials may be made to the Pope County Community High School (Scholarship Fund), 125 State Highway 146 West, Golconda, IL 62938.

Joyce D. Ashby

February 1, 1924 - November 10, 2023