Joyce Elaine (Gagnebin) Sims Beam, just one day shy of her 89th birthday, was called home to be with her heavenly Father, passing peacefully in Hutchinson at the age of 88 years and 364 days. Born on Sept. 17, 1937, in Hutchinson, she was the beloved daughter of Delbert R. and Beatrice Katherine (Ralph) Gagnebin.
Joyce grew up with a strong sense of community and faith, graduating from Abbyville High School before beginning a life filled with service, creativity and compassion. Over the years, she worked at Dillon’s, Kwik Shop, Duffin Optical, and Calico Patch, forming friendships wherever she went. Her heart for ministry led her to serve as the director of program ministry at South Hutchinson United Methodist Church. Later, she stepped into pastoral leadership in Republic and Webber, Kansas, continuing the work her husband, Clarence, began. After retiring in 2009, she returned to south central Kansas and joyfully served at Arlington United Methodist Church.
Joyce found beauty in simple joys. She loved tending her garden, reading a good book, painting, woodworking, cooking and crafting. Card games—especially bridge and pinochle—were a favorite pastime, often shared with friends she cherished deeply. Her warm spirit and gentle presence made her a treasured member of Nickerson United Methodist Church.
Joyce and Andrew J. Sims, Jr., shared many years raising their six children before life led them on separate paths. In February 1985, she married Clarence Beam, sharing over 19 years of love and partnership before his passing in 2004.
She is survived by her children, Kathy Osborne of Nickerson, Richard Sims of Hutchinson, Terrie (Bill) Myers of Nickerson, Robert Sims of Hutchinson, Michael Sims of Salina, and Brett (Sara) Sims of Glenwood, Iowa; stepsons, James Beam of Aurora, Colo., and Richard Beam of Denver, Colo.; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Clarence; stepsons, Wesley, Robert and Donald Beam; and stepdaughter, Lou Ann Ardisana.
Visitation will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, at Elliott Mortuary, with family greeting friends. The memorial service will follow at 3 p.m., with Pastor JR Kabwe officiating. Friends may sign her book on Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday until the service. Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Nickerson United Methodist Church or Clear Thoughts Foundation (dedicated to advancing breakthrough research that can slow, stop and ultimately end dementia), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS, 67501.