Joy Ann Witte

We are so sorry to hear of our cousin Joy‘s passing. Oh we were just making plans to visit her. She was kind hearted, and yes, always encouraging. It was always evident that you loved the Lord above all! Sally Van Hemert, Sandy DeKock, Judy Flanagan, Linda Van Lente. Daughters of Henrietta Hietbrink Van Hemert

- Sally Van Hemert

Joy participated in Bible studies I led at Ivanrest CRC. Her comments were always thoughtful gems. She often had an encouraging word for me as the leader after others had left. I will miss her gentle, joyful spirit and smile and the reminder simply by her presence to focus on the blessings in life.

- Ruth Mary Carr

I had the privilege's of serving under Joy, as my supervisor, at World Renew. She inspired grace, creativity and excellence (the later always in service of others). Praying God will comfort you and bring you peace, even as you celebrate the gift of Joy's life!

- Laura Musoke

My first memory of Aunt Joy was the "lady" with the French poodle! as at first all I remember are the pictures that we would get from when they lived in Goshen. Later, after moving just a few miles away from our family in Jenison, I got to "know" Aunt Joy as Meme (her mother in law, ,my grandma) took me along with her to babysit "little Paul." Lovingly, Aunt Joy would take out her collection of baby dolls and a few other things that I could play with, while "Meme" babysat little Paul-while I assume Joy was teaching. Over the years.....my memories changed to the BEST choc chip cookies that I had ever had were always the homemade ones from Aunt Joy! I remember how she and my Uncle Paul would tell the story about their family trip to France. Somehow she twisted/sprained her ankle and there was no ice to be found in France. So, they used the next best thing and soon Joy had a frozen fish wrapped around her foot! This brought a smile as we all know Joy was always so beautifully well-dressed with perfectly matched accessories.....and that day....her accessory was a fish! Over the years, as we all grew older and went our separate ways, and after Uncle Paul had passed away, I remember Joy sitting with my young 4-5yo daughter and lovingly showing her pictures of her trip to the Holy Land. She gave Sarah 2 little cups carved from olive tree wood. These were something so unexpected and so treasured! Looking at her picture posted here, my last reminder is Aunt Joy's smile. As you can see, it never seemed forced or posed....it not only brightened her face but also the day of the people around her, She always had an encouraging or pleasant and kind word to say to people. I'm sure there is a great reunion with Uncle Paul going on in heaven, but she will be missed. My prayers and thoughts are with all the family as you all go through the grieving process. What a great hope that we have and can celebrate that our short life on earth is not the end.

- Wendy Thompson

Our prayers are with you as you feel this deep loss in your lives. I had the privilege of working with Joy over many years in World Renew. We will never know the full extent of how many were blessed through the gifts she so readily shared. You are blessed to live in the rich legacy she leaves.

- Andrew Ryskamp

Joy was a remarkable member of the Calvin Academy for Lifelong Learning. Over the years, she took 184 courses and 29 event in our program. She also served on the Hospitality Committee, greeting new members in the hallways of Calvin and helping them find their classrooms, She will be deeply missed!!

- Sonja DeJong

Ed and I express our Christian sympathy to all of you in the passing of your Mom and Grandmother! Joy and I have been friends since middle school, we sang in HCHS Sextet for 4 years together, and our breakfast get-togethers have been so SPECIAL, and much more! My grief is also deep and she will be missed! Praying for all of you! Much love to all. Virginia and Ed Hoezee

- Virginia Hoezee

What a kind, warm, beautiful and talented woman Aunt Joy was and how much she will be missed. Peace to all. Love, lin

- Lin Witte

My condolences to the Witte family. May you feel the presence of the Lord surrounding you with His love during this challenging time. May Mrs. Witte Rest In Peace now that she is with our Savior.

- Rosalba Ramírez

So sorry for the sudden loss of your mother and grandmother! Glad she is in a much better place and in no need of worrying about covid any more.

- Dianne, Bill, Christina and Andy Zeman