Joyce Anne Stanko

Joyce Anne Stanko, 74, of Canton, passed away at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, at Red Oak Estates. She was born in Canton on May 26, 1946, to Oliver and Lois Stanko, who preceded her in death.

Joyce leaves three surviving brothers, Glenn (Jo Anne) Stanko of Champaign, Gene (Theresa) Stanko of Canton, and John (Pat) Stanko of Edwardsville, Illinois; and six nieces and nephews.

Joyce graduated from Canton Senior High School in 1964. She attended Sioux Falls College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Joyce was born with cerebral palsy, but her resulting physical disabilities gave her a heart for others. She devoted her work career to caring for children and youth at Elm Tree School in Canton, Peoria State Hospital in Bartonville, and Zeller Mental Health Center in Peoria. She retired from Zeller in 2001 after 34 years of service.

Joyce had a strong Christian faith, which was exemplified by her works. She focused on helping senior citizens following her retirement from Zeller. Joyce served as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels for 18 years. She went into the homes of senior citizens who needed assistance, providing aid and comfort to them. Joyce also opened her own home to older people who had health problems and no place to live. In addition, Joyce volunteered in a nursing home, and she regularly visited residents in the Canton nursing homes.

Joyce was a lifetime member of First Baptist Church in Canton. She served on its Board of Deacons. Joyce enjoyed music, especially choral music, and sang with the Fulton County Singers.

Joyce faced her terminal breast cancer without fear, confident that God would take her when it was her time. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she is now sitting with Him, in the company of her loving mother and father.

A private family graveside service will be held at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton, where Joyce will be buried next to her parents. Rev. Monroe Bailey will officiate. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Canton, 301 East Elm Street, Canton, IL 61520, or to Susan G. Komen Memorial, 900 Main Street, Suite 160, Peoria, IL 61602-5000. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com