It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Joyce Scannell, 91, on August 5, 2023, at Bethel Nursing Facility in Ossining, NY, following a lengthy illness. Born in Chester, NY, Joyce was the daughter of the late Edward and Mary (Maksomski) Roche.

An excellent student and great advocate of education, Joyce graduated from Chester High School in 1948 at age 16. Following her graduation, she enrolled in Flower Fifth Avenue Nursing Program in New York City. (Now called New York Medical College). She graduated from that program with her RN in 1951 at age 19.

In the early years of her career, Joyce worked in Miami, South Bend, New York City and finally North Tarrytown, NY, where she met her husband, Charles Scannell. They were married in 1960 and raised five children together. Despite the demands of motherhood, Joyce continued to pursue her passion for nursing and returned to college where she earned her BSN from Dominican University in Orangeburg, NY, in 1978. Following her graduation, Joyce worked in the former Butterfield Hospital in Cold Spring, NY, and the Veterans Administration Hospitals at both Montrose and Castle Point, NY.

For much of her marriage and after retirement, Joyce enjoyed traveling with her husband. Their excursions took them on several trips through Europe, Central America, the Caribbean, Canada and the American Northwest. For many years, they also spent their summers in Cape May, NJ, and their winters in Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

In addition to her husband of 63 years, Joyce is survived by her five children: Matthew Scannell, Mary-Pat Briggi (Larry), Brendan Scannell (Kim), Joan Scannell and Timothy Scannell (Jennifer). Joyce is also survived by nine grandchildren, Matthew Scannell, Robert Scannell, Daniel Briggi, Conor Briggi, Jack Briggi, Killian Young, Bailey Horney, Samantha Scannell and Sydney Scannell, four great grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She will be missed by all.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was predeceased by her sister, Valerie Degan, and her grandson, James Scannell.

A celebration of life will take place at Brooks Funeral Home in Newburgh, NY, on Saturday August 12 from 2 pm to 4 pm. The family welcomes any guests who would like to attend and celebrate Joyce's life.