Joyce O. Blakeslee

joyce blakeslee

April 9, 1931 ~ November 12, 2020

Born in: Scranton, PA
Resided in: North Branford, CT

Joyce Oswald Blakeslee, 89, wife of 60 years to the late Miles Grant Blakeslee, Jr., passed away in her home on November 12, 2020. She was born in Scranton, PA on April 9, 1931, daughter of the late David and Mary Moses Oswald. A resident of North Branford, she and Miles had also resided in Ft. Myers, FL. Joyce is survived by her children, Catherine Woodruff Reynolds (Richard) of North Branford, Wendy Jane Peterson (Todd) of Gales Ferry, David Grant Blakeslee of Wallingford, and the late Linda Jill Sigety (1956-1989); grandchildren, Andrew Sigety, Bradley Sigety, Caitlin Pannone, Meghan Godino, Matthew Reynolds, Grant Peterson, and Grace Peterson; and great-grandchildren, Lillian Godino, Lilah Sigety, and Allison Sigety. Predeceased by her brother, Wendell Oswald.
Joyce was a graduate of William Smith College, and was proud to be named one of the “Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges & Universities” during the last semester of her senior year. She was a member of Spring Glen United Church of Christ for over 60 years. An avid golfer, she was a member of the New Haven Country Club, the Heritage Palms Golf and Country Club in Ft. Myers, FL, the Mid-Ocean Club of Bermuda, and the Shenecossett Beach Club. Joyce was also actively involved in the Girl Scouts of America, the Junior League of Greater New Haven, and the Women’s Auxiliary of the Rehabilitation Center. She was the recipient of the New Haven YWCA Women in Leadership Award in 1978 for her dedication. She and Miles traveled extensively throughout their 60 years of marriage and enjoyed seeing the world together. Joyce will be remembered for her love of needlepoint, crafting, sewing, and reading, but most of all she will always be known as a very generous person who loved her family deeply.
Per Joyce’s wishes, no public services will be held. Interment in Orange Center Cemetery will be privately held at the convenience of her family. Contributions in her memory may be sent to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405. BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden is in care of arrangements.

View current weather.

Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. David, we send you our condolences and wish your family comfort and peace during this difficult time. I remember you telling me recently about your mom and I having the same birthday.
    Ted and Deb Schaffer

  2. I send my condolences to Wendy, Kitty,and David and your entire family for the loss of your Mom. I have known Joyce and Miles for many years, playing golf, as members of NHCC, as a members of SABIC, an investment club, and enjoyed her company here at Evergreen Woods. I saw her almost every day as she “scooted” past my apartment. I enjoyed having dinners with her. The last just a short time ago. She was great fun to be with and would keep me up to date on her family’s activities. I will miss her greatly. I send my sympathies to all of you and hope your many happy memories will sustain you during this difficult time. Fondly, Ginger Broadbent.

  3. Blakeslees so sorry to hear of Joyces passing, such a special lady, I’m just so happy I got to see her at the club this summer, she will be dearly missed.
    Bev Welch

  4. I am sending all my love and virtual hugs to David, Kitty and Wendy. I so enjoyed knowing “Mrs. Blakeslee” and finally “Joyce”. When this is all over and we can gather again, we will get our two families together to celebrate Joyce’s life. In the meantime, I am very saddened to hear this news. I will think of her reunited with Miles and Linda, and Grandma Oswald and Aunt Rachel.

  5. Mary and Steve Mongillo wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the Blakeslee family. Long time friends at NHCC.

  6. Our most sincere condolences to the Blakeslee family.We have very fond memories of our time together at NHCC.

    Jean and Bob Adnopoz

  7. We were very sorry to hear of Joyce’s passing. She was a very special lady . We so liked hearing of she and Miles travel adventures. Especially where they went to see the fireworks all over the world. May all your good memories bring you some peace and comfort.
    Wayne and Sheila Stone

  8. Dear Family,
    Your Mom, who remains with us in spirit, was such an important part of Spring Glen Church for so many years. We are truly grateful for her legacy and our long time of fellowship with her. May the peace of Christ be with you as you grieve her loss. Best, Curt Johnson


Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle

Accessibility Tools
hide