Joyce Roberts Hathaway, age 91, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025, at 5:14 p.m. Her smile lit up every room she entered, and her kind, generous heart left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Joyce was born January 1, 1934, in Sugar City, Idaho, to John Leon and Stella (Jensen) Roberts. She spent her early years in the St. Anthony area of Fremont County, where she graduated from South Fremont High School. On Christmas Eve of 1951, she married the love of her life, Alvin Gayle "Shorty" Hathaway, just before he left to serve in the Army Field Artillery during the Korean War. After his return in November 1952, they made their home in St. Anthony, where they lovingly raised their two children, Penny Gayle and Brad R.

Joyce was deeply committed to her faith and her family. In 1961, she and Shorty were sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple. Later, they brought their children to be sealed with them for time and all eternity—a reflection of her unwavering belief in eternal family bonds. Throughout her life, Joyce dedicated herself to service through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in many roles, including Young Women's President and Counselor in the Relief Society. But her greatest passion was family history and genealogy. She taught classes, led programs, and supported family research efforts both locally and across Southeast Alaska. Her love for connecting generations was evident in her lifelong devotion to temple work and family records. She also worked for the Family History Center at Ricks College, coordinating Patron Services across Twelve Stakes. One of the highlights of her research journey was a seven-week tour through England, Scotland, and Wales with a group from BYU. In 1997, she and Shorty were called to serve a one-year mission at the Family History Center in St. Anthony, further deepening her joy in helping others discover their family roots.

Joyce had an adventurous spirit and a love for the outdoors. She enjoyed skiing, swimming, fishing, golfing, and spending time in nature with her family. She took great pride in tending her garden, canning in the fall, and baking homemade whole wheat bread from wheat she ground herself. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, where family gatherings were full of laughter, games, and love. She adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren with her whole heart. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with them—playing games and sharing stories. She made each of them feel deeply loved, celebrated their milestones, and created a sense of belonging that they will carry with them always. Her love was a steady and joyful presence in their lives.

Together, she and Shorty shared nearly 52 years of marriage. They traveled and lived in various places including Los Angeles, Juneau, Plains, and St. George, creating memories and friendships in each community. While in Juneau, Joyce worked for the University of Alaska and pursued coursework toward an Associate Degree in Business.

In 2000, Joyce became a tireless caregiver after Shorty's health declined. She lovingly supported him through strokes and surgery, eventually relocating to St. George to provide the best environment for both his care and her own health. Her devotion never wavered—she purchased a home just a block from his nursing facility so she could visit and oversee his care every day.
Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and many beloved siblings. She is survived by her daughter, Penny Lanfear of St. George, Utah; her son, Brad R. Hathaway (Kasey) of Red Bluff, California; eight grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and her brother, Jack J. Roberts (Joye) of Eagle Mountain, Utah.

A graveside service and interment will take place on June 13, 2025, at Riverview Cemetery in St. Anthony, Idaho. With a picnic to follow at Boyd Yancey (Horsey) Park  Her light, her love, and her legacy will live on in every life she touched. .

Her family will receive friends on Friday, June 13, 2025 at Bert Flamm Mortuary, 581 E 1st N, St. Anthony from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m. with graveside services to follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Riverview Cemetery.