Joyce E. (Smith) Bird

MIDDLETON – Mrs. Joyce E. (Smith) Bird, 79, of Danvers, formerly of Saugus and 40 year resident of Middleton, beloved wife of the late Frederick T. Bird, whom she shared over 48 years of marriage, passed away on Friday, August 21, 2020 at Beverly Hospital, with her family by her side.

Born in Lynn, she was the daughter of the late Lloyd and Evelyn (Powell) Smith. Raised and educated in Saugus, Joyce was a graduate of Saugus High School.

Joyce spent her professional career as a diligent Bookkeeper for Sears, Roebuck and Co., where she received several awards as employee of the month, dedicating decades to the company until the time of her retirement.

A loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Joyce loved her family and was happiest when spending time and making memories with them. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly her greatest loves and brought her so much joy during her life. As a young mother, Joyce was very active as a Sunday School teacher, Camp Fire Girl Leader, PTA member, and volunteered in her children’s school library. Her late husband, Fred, was her constant companion since they were 14 years old and his greatest joy was to make Joyce laugh. Later in life, Joyce and Fred traveled together extensively and especially enjoyed cruises to exotic locations. One of their last trips together was to Hawaii. Joyce loved to stay active and was an avid walker and practiced yoga well into her 60’s. Happiest while in her home, Joyce’s hobbies included knitting, crocheting, reading and listening to Elvis records. Throughout her life, Joyce was never without her loyal cat companions. In recent years, Joyce was residing at Seasons of Danvers where she met and became like family to many of the residents and staff. Gramma, you were so loved and will be deeply missed by us all.

Joyce is survived by her son Frederick Bird and his wife Altie of Exeter, NH, and her daughters, Joanne Lister and her husband Jason of Sandown, NH, Donna LeBel and her husband Dan of Middleton, Lorna Hood and her husband Brandon of Middleton, and Deanna Bird of Exeter, NH, her 10 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, brothers, Bruce Smith and his wife Wendy, of Jacksonville, FL, Michael Smith and his wife Debbie, of Rowley and her sister, Lisa Tricomi of Peabody, her sister-in-law, Norma Smith of Atkinson, NH, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, her beloved husband and her brother Richard Smith.

ARRANGEMENTS: At the request of the family, all services are private. Assisting the family with the arrangements is the Peterson-O’Donnell Funeral Home, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) Danvers. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joyce’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 (alz.org). Sharing written remembrances and condolences during this time will be essential in helping Joyce’s family reminisce, celebrate and heal. We encourage you to share your memories by visiting her eternal tribute at www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joyce E. (Smith) Bird, please visit our floral store.