COLUMBUS
Joyce Harwell was born in 1931 in Charlotte, NC, the only girl in a family of 6 children. Her brothers, Bob Harwell, Willie “Dub” Harwell, Charles Harwell, Jimmy Harwell, and Morris Harwell have all pre-deceased her. After attending one year at Columbia Bible College in Columbia, SC, Joyce moved to Anderson, IN to attend Anderson University after being recruited by the then Vice President of the University.
While a working student at AU, she met Glen Hensley, an AU student who also worked full time at Delco Remy. The two were married in 1954 in Charlotte, NC and enjoyed a wonderful 54 year marriage prior to Glen’s death in 2009.
Joyce began her teaching career in Westfield, IN where she taught English. After the family moved to a farm in Decatur Co in 1968, and she completed her Master’s degree at IU Bloomington, Joyce continued teaching English at South Decatur HS until she accepted a position as Guidance Counselor at Greensburg High School where she served until her retirement in 1986.
Joyce and Glen traveled extensively in the US, Europe, and Asia after their retirement. In addition to travel, spending winters in Florida, and being active in their church community, Joyce loved to read, take walks, and spend time with her husband, daughter, and grandson.
Her gentle humility, quick wit, and compassionate, open heart will be missed by all who knew her. Daughter, Deb Cruser, and grandson, Nick (Sarah) Cruser all of Columbus, IN will miss her physical presence but are ever grateful for her ongoing generous and loving spirit.
At the time of her death, Joyce lived at Parkside Court in Columbus, IN and was cared for lovingly in her last few days at Our Hospice. Memorial donations may be made in her name to Our Hospice of Southern Indiana or to the Salvation Army.
