Joyce Hicks Power

Here is my mother-in-law's obituary.  It has been fun sharing stories and discovering new things about her life together.  I hope you enjoy it.

Joyce Hicks Power, 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 5, 2010 after a brave battle with cancer. The world has lost a rare treasure but heaven has gained one. Joyce was born October 29, 1920 in Provo, Utah to Heber and Florence Hicks. She moved to Arizona when she was nine years old to serve a mission with her family on the Papago Salt River Indian Reservation. They served there for 14 years. Joyce attended Phoenix Union High School and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State Teacher's College. She later received her Master's Degree in Music from ASU. She began her teaching career at age 19 at Alma School and retired 46 years later from Queen Creek Elementary. She married Kent Jackson Power on April 14, 1949 and together they had four children. Joyce was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and spent 70 years in the Primary organization bringing joy to children through music. She was legally blind for the past 25 years but continued to live alone, care for herself, play the piano, crochet beautiful blankets for new babies and cherished friends, and faithfully played the organ at the Arizona Temple for 15 years. She was an example of service, optimism, perseverance, and loved being a friend and grandmother to many people. Joyce is preceded in passing by her eternal love, Kent J. Power, a son, Wayne Kent Power, her brother Ridge Hicks, and her parents. Joyce is survived by her sister, Rueda Millett, her children, James Power (Jill), Barbara Power, and Patrick Power (Diane). Her children, 9 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren will all miss her optimism, love, and music. We wish to thank all the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who so lovingly cared for her during the last days of her life. A viewing will be held at Bueler Mortuary (14 West Hulet Drive in Chandler) on Wednesday, February 10,2010 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, February 11, 2010 at the Power Ranch First Ward Building (4170 S. Ranch House Parkway) at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the Mesa City Cemetery.