Joyce Dean Klay, 87 of Springfield, formerly of Stonington, passed away at 10:30p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Cedarhurst Memory Care in Springfield. She was born on November 19, 1936, in Frankfort, Kentucky, the daughter of Vester and Gladys (Andrews) Huffines. She married Lyle Curtis Klay on July 24, 1955, in Stonington, and he preceded her in death on November 14, 2022. Joyce was a member of the Stonington United Methodist Church where she was active in many areas including United Methodist Women, Sunday School teacher, and vacation bible school. She retired from the Illinois Secretary of State Office where she worked for 19 years. Prior to working for the State, she worked for the Stonington Elevator and as a farmwife alongside her husband. She enjoyed volunteering with Meals on Wheels and was a member of the Mothers of Twins club. She enjoyed bowling, cross stitch, crossword puzzles, cards, and board games. She enjoyed traveling, especially to watch her grandchildren’s sporting events and musicals.
She is survived by her son: Rick Klay (Nancy) of Springfield; grandchildren: Kurtis Klay (Antonette) of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Jared Klay and Ethan Klay both of Springfield, and Emily Klay, and Anderson Klay (Heather Downey) both of Normal; great grandchildren: Owen Klay and Riley Klay; brother: Floyd “Bud” Huffines (Sue) of Edinburg; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son: Steven Curtis Klay; brother: Herbert “Red, Dubie” Huffines; and great granddaughter: Lily Renee Klay.
The funeral service for Joyce will take place at 10:00a.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024, at the Stonington United Methodist Church with Pastor Brennan Hurley officiating. A visitation will be held from 5:00p.m. until 7:00p.m. on Thursday at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville and burial will take place at the Old Stonington Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Stonington United Methodist Church or the Alzheimer’s Association. McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
