Joyce (Knapp) Nelson
Aug. 5, 1944 - Apr. 27, 2016
Monterey

Joyce, musical, artistic, energetic, loved to sing hymns, play the piano, and was consistently active in her community until her death. A local church pianist and organist, Joyce was also a recognized vocalist who performed at community and family events. She was a professional voice and piano teacher since 1968. Her kind words and winning smile encouraged her many students at musical recitals. Joyce was a cellist and taught violin. She was an accomplished florist. Before moving to Carmel, she volunteered and served as a president of the Alameda Breakfast Lion's Club and the Alameda Holiday Home Tours (Family Services fundraiser).

In her final years, in a care facility due to advanced Parkinson's disease, she loved to gather patients, visitors, and staff to sing with her. Last year she sang her final public performance from her wheelchair as a guest artist at Carmel Presbyterian Church. We all will miss Joyce's loving presence and joyful energy.

Joyce was born in Waukegan, IL., the oldest of six girls, and graduated from Oakland High in 1962. Her son, Mark Nelson (Alena), grandchildren, Tyler and Avery, and five sisters survive her: Carolyn, Linda, Alisemarie, Mary, and Betty. Her beloved partner of almost 25 years, Gary T. Hamada, and her dear mother, Ethel Knapp preceded her in death in April of 2013.

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at Carmel Presbyterian Church, May 14th, at 3pm. Notes of remembrance to be shared may be sent to Alisemarie Haney, alisems.haney2@gmail.com, or phoned/texted to (415) 613-7566. Please consider contributing to a Parkinson research fund such as American Parkinson Disease Association, www.apdaparkinson.org, in lieu of sending flowers.