On April 28, 2024, Michael W. Joyce, 81, a longtime resident of Guilford, passed away surrounded by his immediate family at Mid-State Hospital, Meriden. He was the husband of Marilyn (Gagne) Joyce. Mr. Joyce was born in Port Chester, New York, on Jan. 9, 1943, the son of the late Michael J. Joyce and Loretta (Abbott) Joyce.

He was the loving father of Robin Bavin (William) of Guilford, Sharon Stabile (Shane) of West Hartford, Marilyn Valace (Greg) of Lakewood, Colorado, and Michael Joyce of Guilford. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Jessica Tefft (Kyle) of Higganum, Morgan Stabile of Worcester, Massachusetts, Jake Bavin of Guilford, and Mason Stabile of Fairfax, Virginia. He was the brother of Cathie Shea of Spring, Texas, and Jackie Boucher (Michael) of New Milford. He was predeceased by his brothers, Robert Joyce and Jeffrey Joyce, and his brother-in-law, Timothy Shea.

Michael attended high school in Mount Vernon, New York. He worked as a top climber for Tree Preservation in New York, where he trimmed the tops of the tallest trees in New York State. After moving to Connecticut, he worked as a truck driver at Stop & Shop Distributors for 35 years and retired in 2004.

Michael was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a great sports fan of the New England Patriots and the Boston Red Sox. He enjoyed playing card games and sports with his family. He was an avid music lover across genres; he loved everything from classic rock to country and loved dancing with his family at all events. Michael was known as a prolific pool player since the age of 14, where he competed at the highest level. He continued to play pool for his entire life and enjoyed playing pool and cards every morning at the Guilford Community Center with his friends. He will be missed greatly by his family and friends.

Friends were invited to celebrate Michael’s life on April 30 at the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. Funeral services were held at the Guilford Funeral Home on May 1. Burial followed in St. Agnes Cemetery, 295 E. Main Street, Branford. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.