Joyce White
Joyce E. Woodward White peacefully entered the arms of Jesus at the age of 78,
following a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Oskaloosa, Iowa, to Frank and Esther
Woodward, Joyce’s life was one of faith, love, and service to others. From a young age,
she shared a passion for music with her brothers, often singing in church.
Joyce was a proud graduate of Olivet Nazarene College and dedicated her life to
education. She began her teaching career in the Benton Harbor area, where she served
for 31 years before continuing as an intervention specialist. Her remarkable commitment
to teaching spanned over 5 decades, totaling 51 years of impactful service to her
students and community.
Joyce is survived by her two brothers Harlan Woodward of Saint Joseph, MI, and
Calvin Woodward of Oskaloosa, IA, her husband of 27 years, Terry White, whom she
married in 1998; stepdaughter Melissa Yeske, stepson Michael White, niece Amy
Maudlin (Mike) of Saint Joseph, MO, nephew Joel Woodward (Melinda) of Saint
Joseph, MI, 4 great nieces, 2 great nephews, 2 great-great nieces, 1 great-great
nephew, and friends.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Esther
Woodward of Oskaloosa, IA, and brother Merlin Woodward of Oskaloosa, IA.
Joyce touched the lives of many with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. In accordance with her
wishes, she will be laid to rest in her hometown of Oskaloosa, Iowa. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa, Iowa, with pastor Darren Melton officiating. Burial will take place in the Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Visitation will take place an hour before service time at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the Bates Funeral Chapel with Joyce’s family present to greet relatives and guests.
Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made in Joyce’s name to the
American Cancer Society or Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Funeral arrangements are pending at the Bate Funeral Chapel