Page 37 - Senior Link Magazine Summer 2023 - Online Magazine

TEXAS TECH CENTENNIAL

Joan, MayBelle, Joyce & Bruce Joyce with two of her daughters

Slaton High School Home Economics class. She made meticulously shells the fruit by hand.) Her giving spirit
learning fun—while teaching the basics of cooking, is alive and well.
sewing, and family management. We students were
excited to be taught by such a pretty, young teacher At age 92, she can work circles around most folks.
who had a handsome husband and beautiful family! Her humor, smile, and laughter can light up any
room! Joyce is an example of West Texas hospitality,
Joyce later taught Consumer Science at Monterey friendliness, and a strong work ethic. Readers may (or
High School, where she continued to make friends may not) know that Texas Tech University prides itself
and impact lives. She became a respected educator for on five shared values: People First, Integrity, Community,
Lubbock ISD. Her optimism, humor, and encouraging Respect, and Exemplary Service. Joyce Cheatham is an
words touched the lives of many students during her example of each.
years in the face-to-face classrooms—and later in her
Texas Tech Distance Learning (virtual) classes. A friend recently summarized it this way: “Joyce is the
youngest person I know! Her quick steps, optimistic
Today, Joyce remains an active community member spirit, and ease in connecting with people make
and leader in Lubbock. She currently serves as her a welcome participant in any circle.” This is a
treasurer for The Lubbock Women’s Club and is a long- Texas Tech Red Raider to follow and to emulate. To
time member of Lubbock’s Westminster Presbyterian paraphrase the words of Donna Ashworth, “Joyce
Church. She is a valued worker for the Lubbock brings light into the lives of everyone she meets.”
Antique Mall and serves on the board of directors for
the Slaton Harvey House. In addition, Joyce plays
frequently in two card groups.

Mrs. Cheatham enjoys traveling and frequently travels
with her sister, MayBelle Kern. They have traveled in
many states, as well as taking trips abroad to England,
Ireland, Czechoslovakia, Scotland, France, Germany,
the Holy Land, and the Netherlands. She has several
collections, including memorabilia from Hard Rock
Cafes, as well as items related to Lubbock and its
history.

Here at home, Joyce lives across the street from
Roscoe Wilson Elementary and frequently cares for
grandchildren who stay in her home for after-school
games and activities (as well as homework supervision)
until parents complete their workdays.
Mrs. Cheatham’s neighbors are also recipients of her
kindness when she shares freshly baked cookies.
Friends often enjoy bags of newly shelled pecans from
her neighbor’s tree. (He gathers the crop, and Joyce

Lubbock Senior Link 37