Elsie "Joyce" Sanders, 81, of Cozad, Nebraska, died Saturday, May 5th, 2012, at the Cozad Community Hospital. 

Joyce was born on March 5th, 1931, in Gurley, Nebraska, to Horace and Lelia (Messing) Sanders. The family later moved to Ogallala, Nebraska, where Joyce resided with her family until 1977.  She also lived in Beatrice and McCook, Nebraska, before moving to Cozad in May of 1981.

Joyce enjoyed attending church throughout her life and had a strong faith in God. Family was most important to Joyce and she treasured visits with her sister, Mary Ellen. Joyce was involved in the Red Hat Society, where she enjoyed the activities with lady friends and the opportunity to wear the fancy hats and scarves. She was a fun-loving person who loved life and the company of friends. She has many friends who will miss her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Milton Sanders and a sister, Jean Miles.

She is survived by her sister, Mary Ellen Bacon of Ogallala and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held (today) Thursday, May 10th, 2012, at 11 a.m., at the Berryman Funeral Home Chapel in Cozad with Pastor Jeremy Jech officiating. A memorial has been established in her memory.  Condolences may be shared at berrymanfhuneralhome.com.

Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad was in charge of arrangements.