Joyce Irene Nestel

On November 17, 2025, we said goodbye to a beacon of love and compassion, Joyce Irene Nestel, born on July 27, 1938, in Leominster, Massachusetts. Joyce was a woman of spirit and humility whose radiating warmth touched all who knew her. Her life was a testament to the power of love and service.

Joyce resided in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and was a beloved member of the St. Jerome Senior Group and the Mayfair Conwell Baptist Church. Her commitment to her community was unwavering, whether she was baking cookies, loving on her cherished cat Trixie, traveling with her senior groups, or preparing meals for the Aid for Friends shut-ins. Joyce made service her life's work, and her legacy is a reminder that love comes in many forms, often as humble acts of kindness.

Joyce is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Nestel, with whom she shared a beautiful journey since their marriage on November 15, 1958. She leaves behind her loving children: Bill Nestel (Sue), Pat Hayes (Bill), Brenda Burg (Sean) and Elaine Karnes. She will be deeply missed by her 10 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, brother Ken Bartlett, sister Sharyn Bartlett, many nieces, nephews, their families and by all who knew her. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Dorothy Barlett, and her brother, Donald Bartlett.

Relatives and friends are invited to greet Joyce's family on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Third Reformed Presbyterian, 3024 Byberry Road, Philadelphia. A service to Celebrate her life will follow at 11:00 am at Third Reformed Presbyterian, 3024 Byberry Road, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Joyce will be laid to rest in a private service at Rosedale Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Joyce's name to the Disabled American Veterans or the Salvation Army would be appreciated.

Joyce's life was a symphony of love, service, and compassion. In her memory, let us strive to carry her melody forward, we invite all who knew and loved Joyce to share their memories and upload photos of her on the memorial page.