Barbara M. Joyce, age 91, passed away on April 13, 2020 after a period of declining health. She was the beloved wife of H. Stephen Joyce who passed away in 1996. Barbara lived a long, full life with many accomplishments. She was a graduate of Newton High School and Boston University’s Sargent College. She worked as a Physical Therapist for 49 years, retiring at age 70 only so she could help raise her grandchildren. Barbara worked as a PT during the Polio epidemic, for many years at the Milford Visiting Nurse Association and with special needs children for Bi-Co collaborative. She was also an accomplished equestrian and riding instructor, teaching many children and adults in Millis how to ride. She loved to go on long trail rides with her friends and children. Barbara was diagnosed with MS in her forties but that did not slow her down. She fought using a wheelchair for many years and even up to a week before her passing would work with her PT to walk even a short distance every day. Barbara’s greatest joy was her grandchildren, she would not miss an event they were in, sporting event, play, concert or school event she was there! Barbara is survived by her three children. Richard Joyce (Sandra), Melita Koistinen (Eric) and Lydia Shields (Doug) all of Millis. Her 9 grandchildren: June, Richard, Kevin, Danielle, Peter, Irene, Stephen, Gerry and Tyler. And her 4 great grandchildren, Sapphire, Colton, Emma and Jaylen. As well as many dear nieces and nephews whom she loved so much. She is predeceased by not only her husband Steve Joyce but her sisters Shirley Ritchie, Marcia Thatcher and Lydia Shields and her 3 beloved nephews Timothy Ritchie, C. James Thatcher and Steven Thatcher.
Services for the family will be private, in the coming days. A Memorial Service/Celebration of Life will be announced when the public gathering restrictions are lifted.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to:
Multiple Sclerosis Society or you can contribute to her grandson's;
Muckfest for MS team
“Team Danielle”
Gerry Shields - captain