Joyce Lewis Witt, 94, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 4, 2012, with her family by her side.

Mrs. Witt was born Dec. 14, 1917, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Coleman Lewis. Joyce was a native of Gloucester. As a young woman she moved to downtown Norfolk to work as a hairdresser. There she met and was smitten by Robert "Brooke" Witt who was working as a "soda jerk" at Smith & Welton’s Department Store.

Joyce married Brooke in 1936 and they spent 67 years together until his death in 2005. She was also predeceased by her son, Robert Charles Witt, in 2008.

Joyce ultimately returned to Gloucester and spent several years as a member of the rescue squad. She enjoyed gardening, playing bridge and spending time with her family. Her greatest feeling of accomplishment came from watching her children and grandchildren grow, succeed and find happiness.

Joyce is survived by three daughters, Joyce Brooke Witt of Virginia Beach, Lucy and husband Bruce Farrell of Salem, Mary and husband Jamie Scott of Norfolk; three sons, Lewis and wife Judy Witt of Chesapeake, Laurence Witt of Roanoke, and Tucker Brooke Witt of Gloucester; 17 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the staff at Walter Reed Convalescent and Rehabilitation Center for their warm support and kindness.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on March 26, 2012 at 11 a.m. at the Church of St. Therese, 6262 Main Street, Gloucester, Va. 23061, followed by a luncheon in the parish hall where the family will receive friends.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Joyce’s name to Abingdon Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 9, Bena, Va. 23018.