JOYCE ANN PUNCH

Joyce Punch September 24, 1945 – October 17, 2025

Joyce Punch was born on September 24, 1945, in Jonesboro, Louisiana, to Milton and Ernestine Vail. She attended school in Jonesboro until her family moved to the Satus area in the late 1940s, later settling in Granger, Washington, where she graduated from Granger High School in 1963.

In early 1963, Joyce met her future husband, Clarence Punch, and they were married on November 14, 1963, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Together they built a life in Prosser, Washington, raising their family in the Whitstran area. Joyce was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker until her children began school. She later worked in the Prosser School District’s kitchen, in in-home care, and at Twin City Foods.

Joyce and Clarence were avid hunters and fishermen who loved spending time outdoors. They especially enjoyed annual fishing trips to the coast, forming lifelong friendships along the way. Joyce also loved to crochet and knit, creating countless afghans and gifts for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She shared her craft with others through Operation Warm Up and volunteered for many years at the Prosser Food Bank.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Milton and Ernestine; her husband, Clarence; her daughter, Christine; and her brother, Johnny. She is survived by her children Carol Stewart (James) of Benton City, Cheryl McCullough (Pat) of Prosser, and Leonard Punch of Yakima; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and her sisters Georgia, Sandra (Ed), and Glenda. She will be deeply missed by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice Care for their kindness and support.

A graveside service will be held on November 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Prosser Cemetery, followed by dinner and fellowship at 313 3rd Street, Benton City, Washington.