Joyce Pritchard Brewster's Obituary
“Enjoy Every Day. Do what you want to do, when you want to do it.” Those words ring in the ears of anyone who knew Joyce Brewster. Joyce Dorothy Pritchard Brewster passed away on January 10, 2023, after celebrating her 94th birthday. Joyce came from, married into and created a large family. She loved and was loved by so many family and friends.
Born January 9, 1929 in Bedico, Louisiana to the late Vercie Lloyd and Van Pritchard, Sr. Joyce was the oldest of four children. She spent her childhood in Bedico close to her grandparents, picking strawberries and attending her beloved Champ Cooper School. After completing Ponchatoula High School, Joyce worked in Hammond, LA until meeting Thomas Edward Brewster. She and Tommy were married on December 6, 1949 and settled in Madisonville where Joyce lived the rest of her life.
In 1966, Joyce became secretary at Madisonville Junior High School, where she served generations of children for over 30 years. Everyone in Madisonville those days knew Ms. Joyce. She lived her life enjoying time with the people around her. She valued her friendships, many of which lasted lifetimes. She spent countless evenings playing cards with her lady friends and was even part of a bowling league for a time. She loved watching all types of sports and was especially excited to watch her grandchildren play various sports as they grew up.
Joyce was not one to sit still, always tapping her feet in time to whatever music was playing. She enjoyed being outside, raking leaves, clipping flowers, feeding her adopted kitties, walking her dogs – Lucy and Sweetie, or simply sitting in her swing chatting with anyone who passed by. She had a knack for seeing the beauty in all things, often complimenting those around her. The Brewster’s door was always open and there was usually something on the stovetop to eat.
We are certain Joyce earned her place in Heaven by raising her five boys, in a house with one bathroom, no less! She is survived by all five of her sons – Dennis E. Brewster (Mary), Darrell T. Brewster (late Chala), David A. Brewster (Beth), Don P. Brewster (Sharon) and Darin J. Brewster (Jennie).
In 1981, Joyce took on the title of MawMaw Joyce when she welcomed her first grandchild. Van Brewster, Emily Joyce Brewster Esquinance (Chris), Olga Rebecca Brewster, the late Evan Brewster, Travis Cherry and Scott Brewster all spent many hours with MawMaw Joyce. She attended their school programs, sports events, birthday parties, graduations and a wedding. In 2021, she welcomed her first great-granddaughter, Ella Wilder Esquinance, and was able to attend her first birthday party.
Joyce lived a full, happy life and inspired those around her to do the same. Her fun-loving, positive attitude will be missed by all those who loved her.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Van Pritchard, Sr. and Vercie Lloyd Pritchard, her sisters, Juanita Beauchamp and Barbara Fay Lavigne, her husband, Thomas Edward Brewster, and her grandson, Evan Brewster. She is survived by her brother, Van “Bear” Pritchard, Jr.
Please join us to celebrate a delightful life.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Services at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 W 21st Avenue, Covington Louisiana on Monday, January 16, 2023, with visitation on Monday beginning at 10:00 AM followed by a service at noon.
The Brewster family kindly invites you to share thoughts, fondest memories, and condolences online at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home Guest Book at www.ejfieldingfh.com.
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