Joyce Diane Lyle Ricketts, age 78, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, in Eliot, Maine, following a heart attack.

Born on August 4, 1947, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Joyce was the beloved daughter of Erland and Bernice Lyle. She was raised in Kittery, Maine, where her faith was deeply shaped by her involvement in the Nazarene church, laying the foundation for a lifelong devotion to Jesus Christ and her Christian faith.

Joyce graduated from Traip Academy and went on to dedicate her life to her family as a devoted homemaker. Her love for music was evident in her faithful service as a pianist and organist in nearly every church she attended. She found great joy in worship, especially listening to the Gaithers and sharing hymns that reflected her deep spiritual life.

A woman of remarkable compassion and generosity, Joyce was known for her selfless nature, loving heart, and gentle humor. She was actively involved in her community through organizations such as Operation Blessing and Meals on Wheels. Her passions included reading her Bible, celebrating Christian holidays, teaching Sunday School, and organizing holiday musicals and Vacation Bible School programs that touched countless lives.

Joyce's legacy of faith and love spans generations. Through her teaching, music, and unwavering devotion, she planted seeds that continue to grow in the lives of her children, grandchildren, and all who knew her. She will be remembered for her patience, kindness, and the deep, motherly love she extended to so many.

She is survived by her loving husband, Frederick "Chet" Ricketts, Jr.; her children, Kristin D. Lhowe and Frederick C. Ricketts, III; and her cherished grandchildren, Frederick Ricketts IV, Gabriel Ricketts, Joshua Ricketts, Ross Lhowe, Sarah Ricketts, and Avery Lhowe. She is also lovingly remembered by her foster children, Cathy, Marty, Dena, and Ray; her siblings, Eleanor, Jim, and John; and many extended family members and friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Erland and Bernice Lyle; her brother Jerry; and her foster children Cathy, Marty, and Amanda Chase Gonzales.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Christian Life Church, 775 Harold L. Dow Highway (Route 236), Eliot, Maine. A reception will follow the service.

Flowers to the church are welcome and must arrive by 1:00 p.m. on May 8, 2026. Those wishing to contribute to the reception may sign up to bring a dish at: https://clceliot.breezechms.com/form/Volunteer_RickettsMemorial_Form

Joyce's life was a testament to faith, love, and service. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.