COLUMBUS, INDIANA
Joyce Ann Lockhart Fleck was born September 23, 1940, in Huntington, Indiana, to Wilbur and Esther (Fleming) Lockhart. In 1960 she married Richard G. Fleck of Columbia City, and in 1962 earned a BS in Laboratory Technology from Indiana University. Joyce worked as a Lab Tech at Columbus Hospital until her younger son, Brad, suffered a brain injury and developed special needs. She cared for him until he was able to attend school; she then launched a second career as a teacher of English as a Second Language, beginning as a classroom volunteer, soon becoming certified as a professional teacher, and ultimately directing the ESL program at McDowell Adult Education Center. Over her 20 years at McDowell, Joyce changed the lives of students from all over the world.
Joyce loved to travel and loved to laugh. Her innocent exterior belied a wicked sense of humor that was sharp but never mean. She was known for striking up conversations with strangers in big cities. Warm and easy to talk to, always ready for an adventure, she believed the best about everyone.
Joyce is survived by her husband, Richard; sons Timothy (Robert Schmeler) of Miami and Bradford of Columbus; and sister Norma Pinney of New Haven. She was predeceased by her brother James Lockhart.
Friends and family are invited to a Memorial on Sunday, February 9 in the chapel at Four Seasons Retirement Center, 1901 Taylor Road, Columbus. Calling from 2:00-4:00, service at 4:00. Arrangements by Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home. Memorial gifts may be made to The ARC of Indiana (https://www.arcind.org/).
You are welcome to view her video tribute, light a virtual candle of remembrance and send a message of condolence to the Fleck family via the funeral home website: www.jewellrittman.com
