Joyce Strader, a treasured and loved nurse of over 35 years, died at 4:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at Alton Memorial Hospital at the age of 68.
Joyce is survived by her children; Jocelyn Strader, Chelsea Strader, and Rhys Strader (Lisa Burroughs); Honorary daughter Shannon Smith (Stephen Smith) and their beloved children Alice Smith and Nora Smith; Brother-in-Law Greg Strader (Eileen Strader) and former spouse Jamie Strader.
Joyce was born in Granite City, IL on November 11, 1955, to Robert and Gloria (Forsting) Zwick. She was married on July 20, 1990, and went on to have three wonderful children. She graduated from Lewis and Clark Community College in 1990 with a degree in Science. She began her career in the nursing field and worked at several different jobs over the years until 2006. Where she accepted a position as a nurse at Alton Memorial Hospital.
Joyce was an extraordinary momma, and her sole ambition was to care for her children. She was a woman who was full of love for books, animals, and word games. Her home and place of work were never silent as she adored music of all kinds. A few of her favorite hobbies were the ones that she shared with her children. She loved gardening with Jocelyn, attending musicals with Chelsea, and cooking with Rhys. She impacted a multitude of people with her service as a nurse at Alton Memorial Hospital for 18 years. She was a respected, valued, and vital part of the community.
Momma you will be missed, and we loved you so very much.
A Nurse Honor Guard tribute will begin at 1:00 p.m. followed by visitation on Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. We ask that attendees dress in her favorite colors of purple, red, or yellow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Muny or St. Louis Zoo. Additional information and online guest book may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.
