After graduating from El Campo High School in 1955, Joyce then attended Josephine Hodge Beauty College in Houston and graduated with her cosmetology degree in 1957. She started her own business, a beauty shop, where she provided haircare and manicure services for over 40 years. Joyce was also a certified nurse’s aide. In addition to her business, she was a secretary and bookkeeper for Zbranek Bros. until she retired in 2002. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters of America, and Christian Mothers.

Joyce enjoyed spending time in her garden and raising chickens. Her canned pickles were a family favorite, and her delicious noodles were part of the St. Mary Picnic Auction for many years. She was an excellent needle worker, creating beautiful quilts and embroidery pieces. Joyce was also a skilled hunter, and she always delighted in playing a game of dominoes. But more than anything, Joyce loved God and her family.

Joyce is survived by her husband of 66 years, Clarence Zbranek of Nada; son, Alan Zbranek and wife Kelly of Wharton; daughter, Janet Freeman and husband Scott of League City; grandchildren Sheldon Stevens and husband Schuyler, Collin Freeman, and Erin Zbranek.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Emil J. Socha Jr., and sisters JoAnn Ballard and Carol Brown.

Visitation began at 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 19 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Nada with a Rosary recited at 6 p.m. Funeral Mass began at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 20 at the church with the Rev. Peter Yeboah Amanfo officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or Garwood Volunteer Fire Department.

Condolences may be shared online at www. triskafuneralhome.com