Joyce G. Rust, 79, of Athens, passed away on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at her residence.
She was born on April 27, 1943 in Olney, Illinois, the daughter of Earl and Geri Gathman.
Joyce married Bob Rust on July 28, 1963 at the Athens Christian Church.
Mourning her passing are two daughters, Arlene (David) Stromberg and Judi (Jack) Harlan; three grandchildren, Brandon (Brittney) Harlan, Alisha (Justin) Gibbons, and Brett (Justina) Harlan; seven great-grandchildren, Matthew, Maddison, Hunter and Lily Harlan, Khloe and John Gibbons and Gabby Clark.
Joyce is preceded in death by her husband Robert M. Rust; parents, Earl and Geri Gathman; and brother, Jimmy Gathman.
Joyce was an amazing mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, always patient and kind.
When not spending time with her family, she loved watching St. Louis Cardinal baseball, Illini basketball, cross-stitching, and playing Hand & Foot card game.
She retired from Prairie Cardiovascular as a Medical Transcriptionist after 25 years of service.
She was a member of the West Side Christian Church, Senior Choir and Small Group Bible Study.
Joyce was loved and adored by all her knew her, she will be greatly missed.
Visitation for Joyce will be held on Monday, January 9, 2022 from 9:00 AM until time of funeral services at 10:00 AM at the Athens Christian Church with Mike Harney officiating.
Burial will be held at Joel Hall Cemetery in Athens.
Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.
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Posted January 6th, 2023 at 10:38 am
So sorry to hear about Joyce’s passing. Everyone is in my prayers. She was a great friend to our family. Loved Square dancing with her and Bob
Posted January 6th, 2023 at 11:10 am
Everyone appreciated and enjoy Joyce’s sweet spirit. She was a voice of encouragement to many of us (even during her own times of discouragement). I always appreciated an opportunity to interact with her or even pray with her. She was simply lovely. I’m so sorry for your loss … She’s safely in the arms of Jesus now.
Posted January 6th, 2023 at 11:21 am
Arlene and Judy, So sorry for your loss – your Mother was so kind and loving and her devotion to your Dad was inspiring. Praying for you and your families. God’s Blessings on All!
Posted January 6th, 2023 at 11:31 am
I was so sorry to hear of Joyce’s passing. She was such a nice, kind and wonderful person. She will be missed by many people.
Posted January 6th, 2023 at 11:34 am
So sorry for your loss!
Posted January 6th, 2023 at 12:47 pm
Prayers and our deepest sympathy.
Lonnie and Mary Power
Posted January 6th, 2023 at 6:49 pm
When your mom asked you how you were, she really wanted to know. Loved being in the church choir with her. May God bless and comfort you at this time.
Posted January 6th, 2023 at 10:13 pm
Arlene, I’m so sorry about the sudden passing of your beloved mother. I’m praying for you and your entire family as you mourn her passing. God bless you.
Posted January 7th, 2023 at 10:43 am
I’m thinking of Joyce’s family after hearing the shocking news of her death. Joyce was always
such a kind, friendly lady. In Sunday School Class, she was so helpful in many ways. Heaven
has gained a beautiful soul in Joyce. Peace and love to everyone who knew her. And may God
watch over those she loved.
Posted January 7th, 2023 at 3:19 pm
I am so sorry to hear about the loss is of your mom. Your entire family is in my thoughts and prayers❤️
Posted January 7th, 2023 at 5:46 pm
I loved Joyce and getting to know her as we drove to church together. She had such wonderful words of wisdom on many things we talked about!! I will miss her so much!! I’m so thankful for our time of talking and getting to know each other better!! I’m so sorry for your loss but to know she is in the arms of our wonderful savior is so comforting I’m sure!! Call me if you need to talk or pray I can do that with you!!❤️and🙏🏻
Posted January 7th, 2023 at 8:28 pm
Judy and family my heart goes out to your family. May Joyce’s memories be always on your mind and forever in your hearts!💕