Joyce Waters of Sycamore, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on August 12, 2026, with her daughters at her side.

Born on November 16, 1944, in Cherry Valley, Arkansas, she was the daughter of Mae and Buck Woolbright. She married Arthur Waters on January 16, 1959. Together they shared a loving marriage of 61 years until his passing in 2020.

Joyce was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend whose kindness, strength, and love touched everyone who knew her. She cherished spending time with her family and created lasting memories that will be treasured forever.

In addition to her many roles in life, she was a proud small business owner in the DeKalb area for more than 20 years. Through her passion for creating welcoming spaces and connecting with others, she touched countless lives in the community. Her first small business venture was Country Cupboards in Waterman. Most recently, Joyce owned and operated My Favorite Things, where she shared her love of primitive home décor, unique gifts, and antiques. Her shop was more than a business—it was a place where friends gathered, stories were shared, and customers always felt welcome. She found great joy in helping others discover special treasures, and her warmth, creativity, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who walked through her doors.

Joyce is survived by her three daughters, Theresa (Scott) Berquist of Glendale Heights, Illinois; Cheryl (Robert) Wojcik of Marengo, Illinois; and Kimberly Atkinson of Sycamore, Illinois; her cherished grandchildren, Jason (Samantha), Joshua, Trista (Adnan), Dawn, Ryan (Jennifer), Tim, and Katie (Quinlan); 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild; her brothers, Hershel (Faye), Walter (Linda), and Larry; her sister, Carol; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur; her daughter Penny (Waters) Telford; her parents, Mae and Buck Woolbright; and 2 of her sisters, Shirley Woolbright and Dorothy Montavon.

Joyce's legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to her family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive relatives and friends at Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, Illinois, on Saturday, August 15th from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Heartland Hospice in memory of Joyce Waters and please send to- Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., PO Box 331, Sycamore, IL. 60178. The compassionate care and comfort they provided to Joyce and her daughters during this difficult time will always be deeply appreciated.

To sign the online guestbook, visit www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com