Joyce Requena

Joyce Requena, 69, passed away surrounded by family on August 17th, 2023, after experiencing complications following cancer surgery.

Joyce Louise Requena was born on November 12,1953 to Clifford Earl and Avis Manor, in Kansas City, MO. The family later moved to Belton, MO where Joyce and her sister, Susan, graduated from Belton High School. Joyce went on to earn her Associates Degree from Longview Community College. In those days, Joyce spent her time with friends square dancing and hanging out by her dad’s lake house. She married the love of her life, Rick Pearson, in 1979, and tragically lost him to acute leukemia after only a few months of marriage. Four years later Joyce lost her mom to cancer as well. She went on to marry Santiago “Jim” Requena in 1982 and over the next 6 years they welcomed 3 beautiful daughters into their lives and home. Her daughters were and are, the greatest gifts she ever received. Joyce and Jim divorced in 1991.

After the divorce, Joyce began to show her true grit and determination that everyone knew and loved so well. She began building a life for her children and providing for them a safe and happy home. In 1991, Joyce and her daughters joined a new United Methodist Church, Church of the Resurrection. Over the next 32 years, Joyce and other founding members helped build a foundation of faith and community and watched as their tiny community blossomed into what it is today. Some of Joyce’s fondest moments were participating with her girls at church and engaging in the Christian way of life through Matthew’s Ministry, Vacation Bible School, singing in choir for many years, and greeting newcomers walking into the church. Joyce was always proud of her church being so welcoming to all people.

Throughout her life, Joyce worked as a secretary, insurance agent, claims agent, concierge at a nursing home, an infant teacher at a preschool, and numerous other positions. Joyce’s life, though, was never defined by her work. Joyce’s life was lived and will be remembered by her love for her children, grandchildren, family, and friends. Joyce’s greatest pride was in her daughters, and she was never shy about that. Anyone she met could be sure they’d leave knowing about her 3 amazing girls. Her granddaughter was added into that pride when she was born, and Joyce’s love only multiplied. Joyce was excited that a grandson would be joining the family, and he was born unexpectedly and prematurely, only a day after she passed. Joyce will be remembered as a devoted mother, a doting grandmother, a supportive sister, a friend to all, and a lifelong, die-hard Chiefs Fan.

Joyce is survived by her daughters Emily (Matthue and son, Riese), Laura, and Mary (Angie); granddaughter Shelby and grandson Graysen; and sister Susan (Gail). Joyce was preceded in death by her parents and first husband.

A memorial service will be held at 10am Saturday, August 26, 2023, at the Wesley Chapel, Church of the Resurrection, 13720 Roe Ave., Leawood, KS 66224. The family requests attendees wear their Chiefs gear to the service. If you are unable to attend the service, you may tune in via livestream by clicking on the following link: Joyce Requena’s Memorial Service

Inurnment will be at the Memorial Gardens at Church of the Resurrection in a private service prior to the memorial.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Church of the Resurrection.