Joyce Jean Samuels

Joyce Jean Samuels, 83 of Kahoka, Missouri formerly of Keokuk, Iowa passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois.

She was born April 15, 1943 in Keokuk, Iowa the daughter of Arnold and Genevieve Zimmer Van Ausdall. Joyce graduated from Warsaw High School with the class of 1961 and later attended beauty school.

On August 15, 1964, Joyce was united in marriage to Joseph Samuels in Keokuk. They were blessed with one daughter, Tisha. Joyce and Joseph later divorced on March 6, 1996.

Joyce dedicated 40 years of her life to working as a beautician. She spent most of her career at Petite Boutique in Keokuk before later working at Methode Electronics in Carthage, Illinois.

Joyce was a member of All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk and was also a member of the United States Trotting Association.

Joyce had a special passion for horse harness racing, a love that brought her great enjoyment throughout her life. She not only followed the sport but was actively involved, training and driving her own horses. One of her proudest accomplishments was winning first place at a county fair. She also had an appreciation for antiques and enjoyed collecting pieces that caught her eye. Above all, Joyce cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her much happiness and joy.

She is survived by her daughter, Tisha (Ron) Gregory of Kahoka, Missouri; four grandchildren, Austin (Anna) Payton of Macomb, Illinois, Shane (Tressa) Gregory of Luray, Missouri, Ashtin (Braden) Smith of Kirksville, Missouri, and Spencer (Morgan Haze) Gregory of Columbia, Missouri; and five great-grandchildren, Payten, Lilly, Weston and Ryder Smith with Boone Gregory/Baby Gregory #2, who is due in December. Other survivors include her two sisters, Judith (James) Hopkins and Janice (Dan) Lucey and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and several aunts and uncles.

A gathering of remembrance will be held from 5-7 p.m., September 14 at Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk with family meeting with friends at that time.