Joyce Ellen (Schumacher) Griffiths, 78, passed away on April 26, 2025, in Lakewood, Colorado. Her vibrant spirit and deep compassion left a lasting mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born on October 16, 1946, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Joyce was the daughter of Laverne Ruth (Frederick) Schumacher and Edelhard “Ed” Arthur Schumacher. During her early years, the family lived briefly in Germany while her father served flying the Berlin Airlift. Upon returning to Milwaukee, Joyce spent her youth training and showing her beloved German Shepherd, Rebel. A proud graduate of Milwaukee Lutheran High School, her yearbook quote—”Listen, I oughta know…”—offered a fitting glimpse into her bright and confident personality.
Her passion for education and personal growth led her to Colorado State University and later to earn a Master’s degree in Psychology from Lesley University. Joyce went on to share that passion with countless students throughout her career. She taught English at Green Mountain High School and Everett Middle School, and later taught English, World History, and Psychology at Wheat Ridge High School. She also coached the school’s Mock Trial team, inspiring students to think critically and speak confidently. Summers often found Joyce abroad, chaperoning student trips and nurturing in them the same curiosity and love of travel that she carried all her life.
Joyce’s creativity and love for beauty expressed itself in many forms. A gifted singer, she sang in choirs from high school through adulthood—and enthusiastically from the driver’s seat during morning school drop-offs. She was an accomplished oil painter and an avid gardener, bringing color and grace to every home she made. Her favorite places—especially Santa Fe and Italy—offered her inspiration and peace.
Despite enduring heartbreaking losses, including her beloved son John Weston Frederick Griffiths, her sister Peggy Lee (Schumacher) Rose, her parents, and her her constant 4-legged companions Ozzie, Napoleon and Winston, Joyce met life’s challenges with courage and tenacity. In her later years, she bravely battled Alzheimer’s disease, facing it with the same strength and dignity she showed throughout her life.
She is survived by her devoted daughter Susan (Griffiths) Hoffer, son-in-law Edward Hoffer, and cherished grandchildren Olivia and Stratton Hoffer. She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters, Terri Schumacher and Faye (Schumacher) Borquez.
Joyce’s legacy lives on in the many lives she touched through her teaching, her art, her garden, and her boundless zest for life. Her love for the finer things—a good meal, a well-curated outfit, a new adventure, or a piece of art—was matched only by her love for family, friends, and learning. May her memory be a blessing and a comfort to all who loved her.
In memory of Joyce, donations can be made to the Joyce and Weston Griffiths Scholarship at Red Rocks Community College. The scholarship was first established by Joyce in memory of her son Weston. The scholarship is available for Red Rocks Community College students with a learning disability pursuing a trade and/or higher education. Donations are welcomed via https://www.coloradogives.org/donate/rrccfoundation, select “Scholarships” and in the “Special Instructions” note Joyce and Weston Griffiths Scholarship or call 303.914.6308.
