Ronald Edwin Joyce's Obituary
Ronald Edwin “Ron” Joyce, age 76, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026. He was born on July 5, 1949, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Charles Edwin Joyce and Letha Mae Joyce.
He was a devoted husband, an amazing dad, a man of faith, and someone who lived a life rooted in both service and joy. He was a proud Cherokee who was always smiling, ready to laugh and have good time.
Ron lived in the same house with his parents until he married Linda Chandler. He attended Owen Elementary, Hamilton Jr. High, and Will Rogers High School where he wrestled and played football and made lifetime friends. Ron pursued higher education at Oklahoma State University, and earned his bachelor’s degree in art education — laying the foundation for a career that would touch many lives in meaningful ways.
His passion for teaching led him into the classroom, where he taught art at the elementary, junior high, and high school levels - gaining the rare experience of educating students at every stage of the academic journey. This was perfect training for going into the youth ministry, which he lovingly fulfilled in Stilwell, Oklahoma for four years showing them that following Christ can be fun as well as rewarding.
Ron was chosen in 1978 to begin a new church on Broken Arrow’s east side where new neighborhoods were popping up, but no churches to serve them. In his youth ministry as well as now being senior pastor, he uniquely blended his artistic talents and teaching abilities to share his faith and inspire others.
Later in life, Ron expanded his professional path by owning an advertising agency and contributing his skills in marketing to the Cherokee Nation. His work reflected both creativity and dedication, leaving a lasting impact on each field he served.
During all this time Ron and Linda were raising a house full of children. He left behind his wonderful children Tatia Marie and Gerry Ringle, Kerry Kyle and Kimberly Joyce, Joshua Edwin Joyce and Dave West, Casey Loran Joyce, and Amaya Lynae Owens. His children gave him fabulous granddaughters, Ella Joyce, Aliyah Owens, and Bailey Barksdale; and his incredible grandsons, the honorary pallbearers, July Ringle, Eli Ringle, Ty Joyce, Jaden Joyce, Makai Owens, Izayah Owens, and Matthew Barksdale; and even three great grandchildren Amberlee, Raylen Charles, and Margo. Going on before Ron were his parents, his brother Ernie, and his son Cortney Tyler.
Ron will be remembered for his kind spirit and sweet smile, creative heart, and unwavering faith. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched as a teacher, pastor, mentor, and friend. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
For Live streaming of the service, please click the link below, the link will become active 15 minutes before the service at 2:45 PM.
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