Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Karen Sue Joyce, of Warsaw, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025, in the care of Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne, at the age of 77. She is now whole again in Heaven with her Lord and Savior.
A lifetime resident of Kosciusko County, she was born on March 23, 1948, in Warsaw, to Barbara Jean Clark Hamman and Forrest Darold Hamman. Karen graduated from Leesburg High School in 1966. She was one of the first non-family members to work at Biomet in Warsaw, where she served for 19 continuous years as a secretary and supervisor.
Karen married James Alan Joyce on Dec. 22, 1978, and they were blessed with 35 years together before he passed away on June 11, 2013.
She loved to read, especially science fiction and horror. She enjoyed anything written by Stephen King or Dean Koontz. Over the years she accumulated quite a collection of books. Musically talented, she played the piano, clarinet and sang in the church as a soloist. Her home reflected her love of big cats, with her walls adorned with the many paintings and artwork she collected. Karen always had a giving nature and throughout her life she was a caregiver to those in need. Providing groceries and meals to many family members. Her favorite pastime was simply spending time with her family. Many of her favorite memories were of the times they were all together. Most of all she treasured all of her grandchildren.
Karen was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend to many. She will be lovingly remembered by two daughters, Sara Joyce, Warsaw; Kimberly Joyce, Cromwell; and her beloved six grandchildren. Also surviving is her daughter-in-law, Sandy Layne, Warsaw; and three brothers: Gary (Jody) Hamman, Warsaw; Ned (Cindy) Hamman, Lake Elsinor, Calif.; and Michael (Pam) Hamman, Akron. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jim Joyce; son, Clay Layne; and two brothers, Gale and Mark Hamman.
Karen’s life will be celebrated with a service at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 23 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw, and officiated by Pastor Glenn Hall. Friends and family may visit prior to the service from 9 to 11 a.m. A private family graveside service will take place at Leesburg Cemetery, Leesburg.
Memorial donations may be directed to Kosciusko County Fop Lodge 149, 1211 E Smith St., Warsaw, IN 46580; or to the American Cancer Society, 5635 W. 96th St. - Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46278.
Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com.
