Dougal

Joyce Carol (James) Dougal, 81, of Mesa, Ariz., formerly of Altoona, passed away Jan. 13, 2024, at home with family by her side after a brief illness. She was a daughter of the late Jesse W. James and Audrey L. (Chambers) James.

She married the love of her life, Ronald W. Dougal, and they shared almost 61 years together until his passing on July 1, 2023. They were especially proud of their family and the life they built together.

Surviving are two children, Ronald (Crystal) Dougal Jr. and Patricia (Tony) Smith; four grandchildren: Tony (Nicole) Smith Jr., Tatum (Cory) Hoff, Makayla (Michelle) McCarthy and Aaron Dougal; seven great-grandchildren: Savannah, Audrey, Talea, Chloe, Dylan, Gavin and Caley; her brother, Sheldon (Helen) James in Michigan; her sisters: Sara (Jim) Kelley in Alabama, Ellie (Rick) Pucciarella in Pennsylvania and Nancy (Brian) Mead in Arizona; sister-in-law, Ann Halton in Arizona; brother-in-law, Howard (Denise) Dougal in Pennsylvania; and numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved very much.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, Jesse James Jr.; sister, Shirley Black; and infant grandson, Bradley Dougal.

Throughout the years, Joyce worked in office clerical positions. She was a school volunteer while her children were growing up and after she retired. She had a giving heart and believed that, in this world, you get nowhere without being kind to others.

She supported her husband as a Navy wife during his service and enjoyed going to Seabee reunions. Joyce loved her family immensely; however, being a grandmother and a “GG” brought her the most joy. She enjoyed spending time with and cheering on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren in everything they did.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Joyce’s honor at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, at Mariposa Gardens, 6747 E. Broadway Road, Mesa, Ariz. Joyce will be laid to rest following the service.

Memorial contributions can be made in Joyce’s name to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014.

www.MariposaGardens.com