Joyce A. Giedd, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully of natural causes on March 8, 2025, in Rapid City, South Dakota, at the age of 75. Born on April 11, 1949, in Glendale, California, Joyce’s life was a tapestry woven with the threads of love, friendship, and dedication.
Joyce graduated from Adolfo Camarillo High School in Camarillo, California, where she was known for her warm spirit and friendly demeanor. After her schooling, she embarked on a career as a credit collector, a role in which she worked across California, Virginia, and South Dakota. Despite the challenges of her profession, Joyce was always recognized for her kindness and generosity, traits that endeared her to colleagues alike.
In her personal life, Joyce was a devoted wife to her husband of 51 years, having exchanged vows on the memorable day of November 21, 1973. Their loving partnership was blessed with a daughter, Melissa Lucas, who brought immense joy to Joyce’s life. Joyce’s family was her pride and joy, and she dedicated herself to creating a warm and loving home.
Joyce’s creative spirit shone brightly through her love of sewing and cross-stitch, where she crafted masterpiece projects that were not only beautiful but also imbued with her love and care. Her artwork was a reflection of her inner beauty and her desire to create lasting memories.
Known for her ability to cultivate deep and lasting relationships, Joyce cherished spending quality time with her family and friends. She was a gentle soul who could light up a room with her presence and whose friendship was a gift to those who knew her.
Joyce is survived by her adoring husband, her beloved daughter Melissa, and a legacy of love that will continue to flourish in the hearts of those who knew her. She was preceded in death by her father, John Baker, and a sister, Teresa Schmidt, who both held special places in her heart.
The words loving, kind, and friendly are not sufficient to capture the essence of Joyce, but they are a testament to the impact she had on everyone she met. As Mother Teresa once said, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” Joyce embodied this sentiment, living a life rich in small acts of great love.
Joyce’s life was a journey of compassion and friendship, and her story will be told with fondness and admiration. As we say goodbye to Joyce A. Giedd, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the lives she touched with her extraordinary heart. Her memory will be cherished, and her spirit will live on as a guiding light to all who were blessed to know her.
At her request, cremation has taken place and no services are scheduled at this time.
Friends and family may sign the online guest register and leave written condolences at WestRiverFuneral.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Dean Moncur at West River Funeral Directors in Rapid City.
