Dr. Gary L. Joyce

Dr. Gary L. Joyce, 80, formerly of Lawrence, KS, passed away on July 2, 2019. Born to Roger and Alma Marie (Bear) Joyce on May 21, 1939. Proceeded in death by his beloved wife Pamela J. (Resler) Joyce. Gary is survived by his sisters Dee and Vicky, his four children Patrick, Jeffrey, Megan, and Erin (Joyce), and his four grandchildren, Andrew, Molly, Ethan and Graesen.

Gary graduated from the Pacific University with a doctorate in Optometry in 1962 and served in the Air Force for 3 years before opening a private practice in Lawrence in 1965. Married to the love of his live in 1966. Gary was a devoted Husband, Father, Coach, and Friend to many. A member of Rotary for 50 years. Gary retired from his practice after 45 years and spent his retirement traveling, golfing, and enjoying friends and family.

The family will greet friend from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 27th at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence.

11 Condolences

  1. Steve & Mary Moore on July 4, 2019 at 11:02 am

    Dr. Joyce was our eye doctor for many years, and Pam taught me how to wear my contacts. We are so sorry for your loss, and know that he will be missed by many.



  2. George Pisani on July 5, 2019 at 10:13 am

    As another long time patient (of many) , I’m saddened by this news. I still go to the practice that bought Dr Joyce’s and they continue his tradition of good care. I’ve been hoping Dr Joyce was enjoying retirement.

    To the family, my hope for peace and good memories.
    George Pisani



  3. Sonjia Payne on July 5, 2019 at 8:55 pm

    We were so sorry to hear about Dr. Joyce’s passing. He was our optometrist for many years. My mother, Margaret Eilts, was his receptionist when he began his practice and worked for him for him until her retirement in 2001. Dr. Joyce and Pam were wonderful, caring people. Our deepest sympathy to the family.

    Sonjia and Bob Payne



  4. Howard Bauleke on July 7, 2019 at 9:54 am

    Dr. Joyce was my optometrist from the early 1970s to when he retired — after I moved away from Lawrence, I would still see him when I came home to visit my parents. An excellent medical provider — I always looked forward to seeing him and my sincere condolences go to his family and former colleagues.

    Howard Bauleke



  5. Kathy Hicks on July 7, 2019 at 10:27 am

    Gary was our wonderful neighbor here on Fountain Drive for many years. He was missed when he moved due to health. Fond memories!



  6. James Conner on July 7, 2019 at 1:27 pm

    I grew up next to the Joyce family back in the 80’s and early 90’s, Dr Joyce helped me so much when I was a kid, he was the person who figured out I needed glasses. He made a huge impact in my life. My sincerest concindolences to his family.



  7. Peter Curran on July 8, 2019 at 2:36 pm

    Gary was truly dedicated to providing quality patient care, but also along with Pam provided great parental care and guidance for his children and grandchildren. Further, he was a shrewd investor and businessman. He loved the game of golf and excelled at bridge. So, he was a true multitalented person. His decline in health and his death came too soon.



  8. Susan Lomas on July 10, 2019 at 8:00 pm

    I was honored to be a part of Dr. Joyce’s optometry practice toward the end of his career. He was an excellent mentor, and a good person. My condolences to the Joyce family.



  9. Jan Miller on July 10, 2019 at 9:53 pm

    I am saddened by the death of my previous boss and good friend. He will be sincerely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the Joyce family.



  10. Daniel Smith on July 20, 2019 at 5:11 pm

    As a young practitioner, I was fortunate to be able to work with Dr. Joyce from 1997-2008. He was a caring provider and a patient business partner. He was able to impart intangible lessons that could only come from a seasoned doctor. My tenure in Lawrence with Dr. Joyce (and staff) will always be a fond memory. My thoughts and prayers are with all his children and their families.



  11. Deborah and Loren McVey on July 27, 2019 at 10:28 pm

    Dr. Joyce was our optometrist for many years, and he also took weightlifting classes from my husband. We liked him so much. Our sincere condolences to his family.



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