Joy Ellen Speck

Joy Ellen Speck, 71, of Punta Gorda, Fla., passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2008. She was born June 19, 1937 in Akron, Ohio to William E. and Martha P. Upchurch. Joy earned a bachelor's degree in education from the University of Akron, and certification in Special Education from Kent State University. She retired as a special education teacher at Blacksburg High School in Blacksburg, Va., prior to moving to Charlotte County in 1999. Joy was a member of both Charlotte Amateur Radio Society and the Peace River Radio Association and held a General Class Amateur Radio license. As a member of the ARES/RACES organizations she volunteered in emergency operations in Charlotte County. Mrs. Speck enjoyed membership in several Punta Gorda Isles civic association clubs including the P.G.I. Fishing Club and Seafarers' Cruising Club where she also had many friends. She also contributed to the German-American Social Club of Cape Coral where she would be seen each day of Oktoberfest taking tickets and greeting guests at the front gate. Joy was an active member and frequent reader at Faith Lutheran Church in Punta Gorda. She will be remembered by her friends, family and former students for her warm and loving personality and dedication Joy will be greatly missed by her loving husband of 41 years, Bob; daughters, Judi Speck of North Augusta, SC and Janny and son-in-law Chris Alexander; grandchildren, Zachary, Noah and Daniel Alexander of Kingwood Tx.; sister, Kay Cyc of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio and five nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister Sara Bauers. . Friends will be received from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, August 14, 2008 at Larry Taylor Funeral and Cremation Services. The memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, August 15, 2008 at Faith Lutheran Church with the Rev. Barr Chittick, officiating. To express condolences to the family, please sign the online guest book.