Joyce Lewis Christensen

Joyce L. Christensen 

April 7, 1934 – April 11, 2025

Joyce L. Christensen, age 91, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, just four days after celebrating her birthday, surrounded by her loving family. In her final moments, she was held by those she loved most, and reunited in peace with her beloved husband Merrill, her son Scott, and many cherished family members who had been patiently waiting to welcome her home.

Joyce was born on April 7, 1934, in Magna, Utah to Garfield "Cap" and Mary Lewis. She grew up in Magna and remained deeply connected to her community throughout her life. On October 7, 1965, she married Merrill Christensen in Salt Lake City, beginning a beautiful life together rooted in love, service, and family.

Teaching was Joyce’s passion and life’s work. She spent 32 dedicated years inspiring young minds in elementary schools throughout the Granite School District. Her influence as a teacher went far beyond the classroom; she touched countless lives with her kindness, patience, and compassion.

Joyce was a woman of deep faith and service. She served as president of the Ladies Guild, taught CCD religious education classes for over 20 years, and generously volunteered her time weekly at St. Francis School and Catholic Community Services. She was always involved on a committee —helping with the annual spaghetti dinner at church and supporting any committee that needed her.

Joyce also knew how to enjoy life. She loved to shop and had her loyal “shopping crew” of dear friends—Marilyn, Kae, Francine, and Rose—who could "do some damage" in a day. We will especially cherish our weekly coffee dates at the Brew Monkey, catching up on all the latest news and sharing laughs. Her joy for giving, her graceful presence, and her generous spirit were unmatched. She had a heart full of love for her neighbors, her church, and especially her family.

She was the epitome of class and kindness. Joyce didn’t have a mean bone in her body. To know her was to love her. She gave endlessly to others and was truly a blessing to all of us.

Joyce is survived by her nephew Darren (Alecia) Lewis; niece Jeanette (Scott McHenry); nephew Randy (Sharon) Parker; sister-in-law Leslee Lewis; granddaughter Olivia (Marcus) Yuill; grandson; and many great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family who will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her husband Merrill Christensen, her son Scott Christensen, her parents Cap and Mary Lewis, her brother Tony Lewis, sister Kae Parker, and great-nephew Justin Jones.

A special thank you to the wonderful staff at Our House Care Facility, who took such compassionate care of Joyce for the last four years. She loved you all, and our family is forever grateful for the love and dignity you showed her.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Darren, Alecia, and Ryleigh for the selfless care and unwavering love you showed Joyce. Your devotion brought her so much comfort and joy, and we are deeply grateful for everything you did.

Funeral and viewing services will be held on Monday, April 21st at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2840 S. 9000 W., Magna, UT. A viewing will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a Mass at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Valley View Cemetery, 4335 W. 4100 S., West Valley City.