Joyce Myrick

Joyce Eva Myrick, 84, of Storm Lake died Nov. 25, 2024, at her residence.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Nov. 30, at United Methodist Church in Storm Lake. Burial was in Lakeview Cemetery in Spirit Lake. Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake was in charge of the arrangements.

Joyce Eva Myrick was born Aug. 22, 1940, to Ralph and Eva (McNary) Myrick in Estherville. She graduated from Harris High School. Joyce attended Morningside College and the University of South Dakota, where she earned her bachelor's degree in music education.

After college, Joyce began teaching middle school and high school music in Armstrong, prior to teaching in Odebolt. She started teaching middle school band in Storm Lake in 1964, retiring in 1994. Her middle school band was known for its quality performances, and her marching band was a frequent participant in local parades. 

Joyce grew up on a farm near Harris which was purchased by her parents in 1942, and she remained active in management of the farm. She spent her childhood caring for her horses and helping her dad with outside work on the farm, with her dog as a constant companion. As an only child, her classmates were very important to her. She maintained these friendships throughout her life, attending frequent reunions.  

In her free time, Joyce enjoyed traveling, visiting all 50 states and 11 countries. Throughout her life, she had a great interest in horses. She owned horses in her youth and enjoyed horseback riding through the Black Hills with her friends. 

Joyce was an active member of Storm Lake United Methodist Church and directed the church choir for many years. Because of her interest in antique vehicles, she was also a member of SERPACI. 

Those left to cherish memories of Joyce include her many cousins, dear friends and colleagues.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Eva.