Joyce Alice (Mattoon) O’Neal, 84, passed away on December 26, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. She was born on February 7, 1939, to Ruth and Kenneth Mattoon in Rockford, IL, and her journey touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
On February 8, 1957, Joyce married James “Jim” O’Neal, and together they shared over 50 years together. In 1963, Joyce and Jim moved their family to Paw Paw, IL, where they not only raised their children but also became an integral part of the community. Joyce, alongside her husband, was the co-owner and bookkeeper at O’Neal Lumber Company. She also managed the Chicago Road Shopper for many years and loved her time working at Ogee Country Club.
Joyce’s love for adventure was evident in her passion for boating, fishing, and finding joy on the water with family and friends. She was an avid reader and loved to travel. Joyce took every opportunity to go to new places and meet new faces, never considering anyone a stranger.
She is survived by her three children: Cathie (Jeff) Holmgaard of Loves Park, IL; Scott (Althea) O’Neal of Albuquerque, NM; and Barry (Clara) O’Neal of Marseilles, IL. Joyce leaves a lasting legacy through her seven grandchildren: Stacy (Ray) Binkowski, Lindsay Safranek, Tim Safranek, Erika O’Neal, Jamie O’Neal, Blake (Candace) O’Neal, and Bailey O’Neal. Her spirit lives on in her two great-grandchildren: Sophie and Vince Binkowski.
Joyce is preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Jim; her sister, Jean Lawrence; and brothers, John and James Mattoon. She was also reunited with her faithful canine companion, Roxy.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024 at 10:00 am at the Paw Paw First Presbyterian Church, 398 Chicago Road, in Paw Paw with Pastor Ken Foster officiating. A graveside service will take place at 12:30 pm at the Scandinavian Cemetery in Rockford, IL. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Paw Paw Public Library, reflecting Joyce’s spirit of generosity, community, and love for reading. Please visit www.tormanfuneralhome.com to sign the online guest book.
My heart goes out to Joyce’s whole family; kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, and anyone who knew her. If you knew Joyce you loved Joyce. It saddens me for sure that I was not able to attend her memorial as I have COVID, but I was definitely there in spirit. Rest well my dear friend 💕
Comment *We didn’t know your Mom for very long but miss seeing her next door every day. She was such a wonderful lady.
Our deepest sympathies to all of you.
Comment *We are so sorry to hear about your mom . She was a great friend to our mom and Wildfire , Conan & Dance .She will be missed . Ronnie , Lisa and Alan
Comment what a lovely person. So enjoyed visiting with her-would chat while swinging on the her swing & watch Roxie! Missed her when I moved to Mendota!
Comment *Aunt Joyce you will be missed very much!. 🙏💕🙏💕🙏
Comment *Cathy, Scott and Barry, your mom was one of a kind. She was my best friend and her death has left an enormous hole in my heart. She would talk about you kids, the grandkids and great-grandkids endlessly. She was so proud of each and everyone of you. Sending prayers and hugs to the entire family. She will definitely be missed.