Joyce Hurt

Joyce E. Hurt

July 3, 1932 – July 4, 2026

Joyce Hurt, a woman whose warmth, creativity and welcoming spirit made every place she called home a little brighter, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on July 4, 2026.

Born in Brownsville, Texas to parents Jesse Liston and Annie Smith, Joyce grew up in Austin. Her life changed forever when she met the love of her life, August Hurt, while he was stationed at Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin. They were married on April 25, 1953, beginning a 60 year partnership built on faith, family, friendship and unwavering devotion.

Together they made their first home in Berwyn, Illinois before settling in Tinley Park in 1957, where they lovingly raised their four children. Family was always at the center of Joyce’s life and she created a home filled with love, laughter, traditions and unforgettable holidays.

Joyce and August were deeply involved in their Tinley Park community. Together they were very active in the Knights of Columbus, where they formed countless lifelong friendships through charitable work and fellowship. Joyce was a constant source of support beside August, who was one of the founders of the nationwide Tootsie Roll Drive. They touched the lives of so many through their generosity and service.

In 1991, Joyce and August retired to Harlingen, Texas where they embraced the next chapter of life. They enjoyed golfing, entertaining and opening their home to everyone who visited. Joyce’s gift for decorating was unmatched. Every season and every holiday became an opportunity to create beauty and celebrate life. Her creativity and outgoing personality led her to serve as Vice President of the country club board.

In 2013, Joyce and August moved to Omaha, Nebraska to be closer to family. Although Joyce endured the heartbreaking loss of her beloved husband only two months after moving into their retirement community, she chose to continue living with the grace, kindness and optimism that defined her. She quickly became known throughout the community for her beautiful seasonal decorations and her genuine friendship with neighbors.

Her concrete porch geese became something of a legend. Carefully dressed for every holiday and season, they reflected Joyce’s joyful spirit and boundless imagination. She delighted in decorating not only her own home but also the doors of her neighbors, bringing smiles from everyone. What began as a simple hobby became a way of connecting with others, creating friendships and spreading happiness. Her goal each day was to make someone smile.

Above all else, Joyce treasured her family. She was the loving mother of Janet (John) O’Bryan, Nancy (Doug) Glass, David (Ronda) Hurt and Jeff Hurt.

She was the proud grandmother of Justin (Christie), Adam and Drew (Maria) O’Bryan; Brandon, Ben (Leigh), Nick (Cody) and Alex Glass and Jenna (Rob) Windisch; Aliyah and Julian Hurt.

Adding to Joyce’s happiness was being “Gigi” to Joselyn and Corinne O’Bryan, Kaia Brundage, August and Lulu Glass, Maylee and Ashton Glass, Hallie, Cameron and Maxwell Windisch.

Joyce is survived by her brother, John (Judy) Smith, her sisters-in-law, Helen Smith, Susan Hurt, MaryAnn Carrier and Lynn Kosmak, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, August Hurt, her parents Jesse Liston and Annie Smith, her brothers, Cecil Smith and J.L. Smith, her brothers-in-law, Howard Hurt and George Kosmak, and her cherished grandchildren, Brian and Lindsay Glass.

While the seasons will continue to change, the beauty Joyce brought into the lives of others will remain forever. Her love lives on in all the family traditions, holiday gatherings, decorated doorways and in the countless memories held close by those who will miss her always.

A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held at Vandenberg Funeral Home in Tinley Park on Saturday, September 5, 2026 from 9:00  until 11:30 am Catholic mass at St. George Church in Tinley Park. Interment will follow at Good Shepherd Catholic Cemetery in Orland Park.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to:

Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter