Joyce McIlvried Buckingham, 85, of Granger, Ohio, passed away on December 22, 2023 after bravely battling cancer. She was born to Edwin John McIlvried and Colette Clement McIlvried on June 1, 1938 in Lakewood, Ohio. Joyce was a spirited, adventurous woman who always loved a good joke. Her zest for life was truly inspiring.

Joyce was a proud member of Muskingum College’s 1960 graduating class, garnering a degree in Education with certifications in Spanish, Biology, Physical Education, and English. She was a devoted member of the Kianu sorority, proudly displaying her letters up to the time of her passing. She always spoke of her college years as among the most influential of her life.

From a young age, Joyce enjoyed raising animals. As a child she raised and sold chickens and rabbits. She reared Arabian horses and bred Wire Fox Terriers as an adult. Her hobby of breeding Wire Fox Terriers grew into a family passion for the breed--which continues to this day and will likely continue for generations to come.

Joyce had a successful career as a teacher, having taught elementary school as well as high school English and Spanish. Her passion for education touched the lives of many students throughout her career.

Joyce’s large variety of interests and hobbies provided enrichment and enjoyment beyond measure. She was an avid and skilled Bridge player, forging lifetime friendships through her devotion to the game. She was also a licensed pilot and loved taking to the skies. On top of this, Joyce enjoyed horseback riding and exploring the great outdoors. Her adventurous spirit knew no bounds.

Joyce will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and beloved dog, Cloe. Joyce is survived by her children; Mark (Janice) Foraker, Amy (Bernhard) Swoboda, Beth (Chellie) Foraker, Bruce (Lori) Foraker and step daughter, Anne (Glenn) Goodrich. Also surviving are thirteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, as well as her siblings; Miriam Pirnat, Bonnie (Robert) Rasor, John (Karen) McIlvried, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, and her beloved husbands; Thomas Hurst and Thomas Buckingham.