Joyce Burke

Our most beloved wife and mother, Joyce Marie (Robinson) Burke passed away March 2, 2011. Joyce was born July 18, 1927, in Lake Charles, La. She was the elder of two children of Selcyr Burdette and Mary Agnes (Gremillion) Robinson. She grew up in Lake Charles and became a legal secretary after graduating from high school. She married John Joseph Burke on Sept. 5, 1949, and was his constant spouse and closest friend for more than 61 years. Joyce was a loving and generous mother to six children: Kathleen A. (John) Kocks, John J. Burke Jr., David R. (Prima) Burke, Mary Joyce (Ken) Smith, Jeri A. Karmazin, and Molly L. Burke. She was the grandmother of eight (Bridget, Heather, Meredith, David, John, Kelly, Savannah and Allan) and great-grandmother of six (Jacub, Tyler, Brennan, Caroline, Nolan and Kyle). She was preceded in death by her parents and only sibling, Geraldine Ann (Robinson) Lenamon. Like her mother, Joyce was an accomplished pianist who considered music one of God’s greatest gifts to mankind. One of her favorite songs was “You Are My Sunshine,” and this is what she was to her family. She had a joyful spirit and met each new day with happy expectation. She enjoyed acting and making people smile. She spoke her mind frankly, even to strangers, but the intent behind her words was kind. She was proud of being a housewife and mother, always ready to show a photo of her six “beautiful children,” proclaiming they were the best gift she ever received from her husband John. Joyce was not concerned about material possessions; she was a down-to-earth lady who treasured common sense, courtesy to others and honesty. In all these ways, Joyce was a beautiful soul. Her family keenly misses her, but we are consoled in knowing she is at peace and with her maker. There is more music and sunshine in heaven now. The family is planning for a private memorial service for relatives and close friends. Mothe Funeral Home in charge of arrangements, 504-366-4343.