Obituary of Joyce N. Zeller

EDWARDS – Joyce N. (Rice) Zeller, age 84, of Edwards, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital, Potsdam, NY, with her family at her bedside. Born on November 25, 1939 in Hermon, NY to Vernon and Nettie (Hance) Rice. Joyce married Rowland "Ronnie" Zeller on January 19, 1963. Joyce's working career included the Boonville Hotel in Boonville, NY, the Edwards Hotel, Edwards, NY, Newton Falls Papermill and as a dialysis technician at Hepburn Hospital in Ogdensburg, NY. Joyce and Ronnie owned an antique shop for nearly three decades. For the past 27 years she worked with her companion, Nicholas Valdivez at TNT Tackle, Edwards, NY. Joyce led a fulfilling life until her retirement in September 2023. Joyce enjoyed gardening, family time, reading and baking. She is survived by her son, William Zeller of Talcville, NY, daughters, Kimberly Crowner and her husband Dennis of Antwerp, NY, Vicki Brunet and her husband Randy of Edwards, NY, 5 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and her companion, Nicholas Valdivez of Edwards, NY and his daughter Tracy Cunningham and her children, Leah and Kylie. She is also survived by sisters, Irene Roberts, Nancy Peck, Sandra Carlin, and Nettie Whitford. Joyce is predeceased by her husband of 34 years, Rowland Zeller, her daughter, Valerie Sue in 1986, her parents, Vernon and Nettie Rice, and sisters, Grace Holly, Marylou Walrath, and Beulah Kerr. A graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery, Hall Road, Edwards, NY on Friday, August 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Pastor Reggie Curtis. A luncheon gathering will be held following the graveside service at the Edwards Fire Hall. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. In Joyce's memory, donations can be made to a charity or organization of your choice.