Cecile "Joyce" Orton

Cecile "Joyce" Orton, 85, of Berkshire, NY, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2025. Born on June 1, 1939, the daughter of the late Wilbur and Mildred (Lemke) Brown, Joyce lived a life characterized by kindness, a caring nature, and a touch of sass that endeared her to all who knew her.

Joyce is survived by a family who adored her: her loving husband of 67 years, Harry Orton Sr.; her children, Harry (Cindy) Orton Jr., Cheryl Stevens, Michelle Craft, Daryl (Jennie) Orton, and Candace Ely. She was a cherished grandmother to Jeremy, Thomas, Shawn, Vickie, Jodie, Amanda, Natasha, and Corey, and a proud great-grandmother to 13 great-grandchildren. Joyce's memory will also be treasured by her brothers, Arthur and Richard Brown.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her siblings Lynn Brown, Eleanor Rice, Beverly Youmans, her treasured mother-in-law Helen Parker, and son-in-law Ronnie Craft.

Joyce's passion for cooking and baking was an integral part of her life. She made wedding cakes in her spare time, delighting many with her tasty creations. Her talents extended to making candies and sweets, which she shared generously with family and friends. Joyce's culinary skills were just one of the many ways she expressed her love and care for those around her.

Her interests were diverse and always centered around family and community. Joyce relished 'going to camp' at Seneca Lake, where she found joy in the simplicity of nature and the company of loved ones. She was an avid crocheter, creating beautiful pieces that were both a hobby and a gesture of warmth to those she gifted them to. Music was a significant part of Joyce's life, and she loved nothing more than listening to her husband play guitar and perform with his band.

Known for her straightforward and at times sassy demeanor, Joyce was never one to shy away from telling it like it was. This trait, paired with her loving and caring nature, made her a central figure in the lives of many. It was not uncommon for people beyond her immediate family to affectionately call her 'mom', a testament to the maternal and nurturing spirit she embodied.

Those who knew Joyce would describe her as loving, selfless, and kind. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel like family, and her impact on her community was profound. Her legacy is one of love, laughter, and the countless lives she touched with her generous spirit.

Abiding Joyce’s wishes, there will be no services. Memories and condolences can and be shared in her guestbook online at www.macphersonfh.com. The family is under the caring guidance of MacPherson Funeral Home in Newark Valley.