Obituary of Joyce Benner

Joyce Elaine Benner September 4, 1931—May 14, 2012 Joyce Elaine Carpenter was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 4, 1931. She was the daughter of the late Joseph Carpenter and the late Barbara (Schmitz) Carpenter. Joyce worked for many years as a telephone operator. She moved to Monroe from the Detroit area in 1972. Joyce was very artistic and she especially loved to draw. She also loved to sit outside her apartment with her extended family. She was well respected and well loved by all of them. Although she very often appeared not to be listening, at any given moment Joyce would surprise her family and friends with words of wisdom, answers, and advice. Joyce was a God-fearing woman who treasured her bible study on Thursday nights. She was a giving and loving mother. Joyce cared about the well-being of others as much as she cared about her family's well-being. She volunteered for many years at Mercy Memorial Hospital. Joyce was loved and adored by her family. Joyce Elaine Benner, age 80, passed away at 1:16 p.m., Monday, May 14, 2012 at her home. In addition to her parents, her passing was preceded by a son: Michael; two sisters: Gerrie and Pat; a brother: Don; and a granddaughter: Suzanna. To cherish her memory, Joyce leaves behind her sons: Ken Presley of California and Len (Cindy) Presley of Monroe. Friends may gather from 2:30pm until 7:00pm Saturday, May 19, 2012 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life will follow at 7:00pm also at Merkle's. The Reverend Roy Southerland, Pastor of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church will officiate. Cremation will follow through Southern Michigan Services in Livonia. There will be a private inurnment service at a later date at Michigan Memorial Park. Memorial donations are suggested to the family. Online guests may leave condolences, share a photo, make a donation, or send floral arrangements by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.