Joyce L. Marsh

Joyce Laverne Balzen Marsh passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on Thursday, June 19, 2025. Joyce was born on July 11, 1931, to Oscar and Effie Balzen. She was 1 of 3 children alongside her sister, Mary Harp of Uvalde, Texas, and her brother, Earl Wayne Balzen of Groesbeck, Texas. After the passing of their father when she was 3 years old, their mother moved Joyce and her siblings into Knippa, Texas, where they grew up. In her high school years,

Joyce met the love of her life while cheerleading at a football game. Carlton Marsh, “C.R.”, spotted her on the sidelines and asked someone who she was, to which they responded “Oh, that’s Punkin!” Not long after, the two began dating and were married in November of 1948.

In their early years of marriage, Joyce and C.R. moved often in support of C.R.’s dream of playing semi-pro baseball. They began their family young, having had two young children when C.R. decided to stop pursuing baseball and join the Marine Corps, of which he was later honorably discharged. In the early 1950’s they moved their growing family to Taft, Texas, where C.R. had taken a job with Reynolds Metals Company. It was in Taft that they raised their four children, and got involved in the community and workforce. Joyce worked for Toland Construction Company in Taft for 22 years, was part of the Taft Band Boosters, taught Sunday school at the United Methodist Church, and volunteered her time and skills in any way she could. Joyce was a woman of many talents. She was an excellent cook, a gifted painter, a fabulous seamstress, and an expert in needlepoint. She created beautiful works of art, designed and sewed clothing for herself and her three daughters, and shared her talents with those around her.

Known as Punkin to some, Joyce was known as Meme to the many who loved her. Our Meme was a dedicated wife, mother, and the very best grandmother to her 8 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She loved each of her grandbabies fiercely and took immense pride in their lives as they grew up. Both she and C.R. were heavily involved in every one of their grandchildren’s lives, hardly ever missing a game or event. Countless memories were created through the years, many taking place at our beloved family home in Concan, Texas. Meme and C.R. poured their heart and soul into their family, supporting each grandchild through every phase of life. The impact they had on each family member is truly immeasurable. Together, Meme and C.R. created a legacy filled with love and memories. Ones that we will cherish forever.

Joyce and C.R. resided in their home in Taft until early 2022. They then moved to Brookdale Assisted Living in Portland, where they lived for 3 years. Joyce was a loyal, caring friend to many. She was known to sit in the halls and talk with her girls, frequently win at the bingo table, and be a positive light to those around her. She truly loved her time at Brookdale. The family would like to express deep gratitude to Paula, George, Ty, and Lisa from Brookdale Assisted Living. We are forever grateful for the love and care you provided both Meme and C.R. during their time living there.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband of 76 years, C.R. Marsh. She is survived by her sister, Mary Harp, her brother, Earl Wayne Balzen, and her children – Carlton Ray “Sandy” Marsh, Jr., Debie Duprie (Don), Jenda Marsh Miller, and Terri Ritchie Dewbre (Jerry). She is also survived by her grandchildren – Clay Nance (Jill), Justin Duprie (Josh), Jacey Duprie, Kerry Simmons (Zach), Jacelyn Ritchie, Wesley Ritchie (Kristin), Allison Sims (Aaron), and Kendall Hoog (Kit). She also has her 13 great-grandchildren – Reese, Maddy, and Kate Nance, Finn Duprie, June and Hugh Leavitt (Duprie), Gehrig and Mack Simmons, Joy and Lane Ritchie, Ruth and Hank Sims, and Stella Hoog.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Harbor Hospice Facility for their support and care they provided Meme during her time there. They also want to thank Meme’s dear friend, Sister JoeMary, for her prayers and love she provided our Meme over the last 5 years. Joyce and C.R.’s wishes were to be cremated and interned in Knippa, Texas, alongside their loved ones. The family will be holding a private service at a later date. If you would like to make a donation in Joyce’s name, please do so and address to:

South Texas Children’s Home 

PO BOX 1210

Beeville, TX 78104

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads' Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com