Joyce A. (Dibble) Heath, of Portage formerly of Vicksburg, passed away at home where she has been lovingly cared for by family, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the age of 83. She was a beloved mother, devoted friend, and cherished member of her community. Joyce was born on June 12, 1942, and was the daughter of John and Aleta (Maul) Dibble. Joyce’s life was marked by unwavering dedication to her family and the relationships she nurtured throughout her years.

A graduate of Vicksburg High School's Class of 1960. Joyce maintained a close-knit circle of friends from her school days. She treasured these lifelong connections and enjoyed having breakfast with some of her classmates each month.

Joyce was primarily a stay-at-home mom and was committed to raising her children and being the cornerstone of their lives. In the later years, she went into the workforce at the Shell gas station in Vicksburg, where she worked for many years. There, she enjoyed interacting with the regular customers, and the connections that she made with them.

Fond memories of Joyce include her love for playing cards with family. She had a competitiveness spirit and never wanted to lose. Her passion for bringing the family together was also evident in her enthusiasm for holidays, especially Christmas. Additionally, she delighted in outings to Gun Lake Casino, relishing the excitement of the games and having dinner at the buffet.

Described as strong-willed and the “rock” of her family, Joyce was not only a best friend to her children but a loving grandmother and great-grandmother as well as the steady foundation upon which many lean. Her family-oriented nature and strength of character left a mark on all who knew her.

Joyce A. Heath’s life was one woven with love, loyalty, and a passion for those closest to her. She will be remembered with great affection and respect by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by husband Ronald Heath; her parents; three sisters and two brothers.

Joyce is survived by her three children: Todd Dibble, of Climax; Ronald Stampfler, of Kalamazoo; Kathryn (Bill) Rackley, of Portage; one stepson: Ronald Heath, of Kalamazoo; six grandchildren: Steven (Ashley) Dibble, of Three Rivers; Kristopher (Kelsey) Dibble, of Battle Creek; Mollie Stampfler, of Plainwell; Justin Havenaar, of Portage; and Audrey Havenaar, of Portage; and five great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law: Connie Dibble, of MD; and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.

Joyce has been cremated and a memorial gathering will be held at a later date.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Joyce’s guestbook and your favorite memory with her family.

The Heath family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.