Joyce Chamberlain Van Gorder

Joyce Chamberlain Van Gorder, 78, a beloved wife, mother, and Nana, passed away peacefully surrounded by love on August 31, 2024. Born on August 31, 1946, in Oak Park, Illinois, Joyce’s life was marked by service, loyalty, and love. The youngest of five children born to Everett and Evelyn Chamberlain, she deeply loved her sister and best friend, Evelyn Keehn and her three brothers, Jack, Jim and Ron. Her family truly built the foundation of her life. Throughout her life, Joyce was continuously focused on being in service to others, especially children. She owned and operated a childcare center for years, and at the age of 50, she went back to college, graduating from Eckerd College on August 31, 2000, with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. Joyce spent the rest of her career serving as a Family Care Counselor under the Florida Department of Children and Families. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life, and she took great pride in supporting her church. Joyce was a devoted member of The Order of the Daughters of the King, an order for women who are communicants of the Episcopal Church and those in communion with the church. The greatest joy in Joyce’s life was her family. She was immensely proud of her two daughters, adored her son-in-law, and treasured every moment with her two granddaughters. Joyce had a pure love of life, valued her friendships with her girlfriends, and taught her daughters the importance of true and loving, lifelong friendships. She loved a good party, good music, fireworks, and any reason to celebrate life. Joyce left this world just as she lived it—dancing, laughing, and smiling. Joyce’s love story with her beloved husband, Bill Van Gorder, spanned 59 years. Bill preceded Joyce in passing in May of this year, and we know he was the first to welcome her in heaven. Their marriage was a testament to commitment, partnership, and enduring love. Together, they built a life filled with precious memories and shared experiences. Joyce grew up in Dunedin, Florida, and lived in various Florida cities, including North Fort Myers, Lake City, and Bartow. In recent years, Joyce and Bill moved to Oviedo, FL, to be closer to their family. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Renee Van Gorder and Susan Van Gorder, Susan’s husband David Hickey, and her deeply beloved granddaughters, Isla Kate and Zoe Annabel Hickey. Joyce touched the lives of her many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and numerous friends, all of whom she loved dearly. Her cherished love and infectious laughter will continue to resonate in our hearts as we honor and celebrate her life so well lived. The family plans to hold a celebration to honor both Joyce and Bill’s lives at a later date.

Joyce Chamberlain Van Gorder

August 31, 1946 - August 31, 2024