Joyce Elaine Spahn, age 90, of Freeport, IL passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at Ascension Living Saint Joseph Village. Joyce was born on September 21, 1932 in Freeport, the daughter of Eugene and Esther (Meier) Spahn.  She graduated from Freeport High School in 1950 and later attended Mission House College, earning her degree in education. Upon graduation, she taught high school in Two Rivers, WI.

She began teaching in the Freeport School District in 1967. Teaching middle school was her passion and she did so until her retirement in 1993.  Throughout her teaching career, she was highly regarded by her colleagues, parents and students. She was always willing to mentor new staff and served as English Department Chair for 10 years. Joyce was a brilliant English teacher, always eloquent in her spoken and written communication. In the classroom, Joyce used her exceptional teaching skills to inspire her students to strive for excellence and achieve their highest potential.

During her retirement years, she continued to share her gift of writing. She contributed to various publications, including chronicling the history and renovation of the Krape Park Carousel for the Illinois Parks and Recreation Periodical.

Joyce was a devout Christian. Her deep faith was evident in her everyday life, as she was always caring and generous with her time and talents. As a long-time member of Open Bible Church, she volunteered in the church library, taught adult Sunday School for many years and advised students at the Open Bible Learning Center.

Joyce was dedicated to her family and friends. From family celebrations, to dining out, to phone calls that lasted for hours, she always enjoyed keeping up with everyone's lives. She was tireless in her compassionate care for her aging parents and aunts.

She will be remembered by countless students, fellow educators, friends and family for being gentle, good-natured and kindhearted. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by several cousins. The family would like to thank the staff of Ascension Living Saint Joseph Village for the care provided to Joyce over the last few years.

Memorials can be made to Open Bible Church.  A public visitation will be held from 10am – 11am on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at the Open Bible Church in Freeport, IL. A service will immediately follow at 11am also at Open Bible.  Condolences can be left for the family at www.walkermortuary.com.

Wonderful memories

Of one so dear,

Treasured still

With a love sincere,

In our hearts she

Is living yet,

We loved her too

Dearly to forget.