Obituary

Joyce Rivera, long time resident of Cottonwood, passed on August 19, 2021, at her home with family at her side.
I’M FREE
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free,
I’m following the path God has chosen for me.
I took his hand when I heard his call,
I turned around and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
to laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I’ve now found Peace at the end of the day.
My life’s been full, I savored much,
Good Friends, Good times, my loved one’s touch.
Perhaps my time seems all too brief,
Don’t lengthen your pain with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and Peace to thee,
God wanted me now, He has set me free.

Joyce is survived by her Husband, Joe, of 53 years and their five sons. Joseph of Artesia, Jeff and wife, Nicole of Niceville Florida, Jon of Artesia, Jerry and wife, Natalie of Dallas, Texas and Jamie of Artesia. Joyce had 8 Grandchildren. Alyssa of Albuquerque, Justin and Julia of Florida, Hannah and Jameson of Texas and Jacob, Josh, and Jalen of Artesia. Joyce had 3 sisters, Paulette Duarte of California, Charlette Duarte of North Dakota and Loretta Campbell of Colorado. She had one brother Charles Gladue from North Dakota.  She always loved to dance and enjoyed listening to her “Oldies” music, although, her greatest loves were her family and grandchildren.