Joyce Marilyn Martin, 73, of Richland, WA, was called home by the Lord on Sunday, August 26, 2007 at Hospice House in Kennewick, WA. She was born May 21, 1934 in Tacoma, WA to Frank and Gladys Coates. Joyce was raised and educated in Tacoma, WA, graduating from Stadium High School in 1952. On November 14 of 1952, she married Gerald Jerry Martin and they had 3 children. After the children were grown Joyce worked at Associated Ministries of Tacoma/Pierce County as the financial officer. Joyce was gifted with perfect pitch and a beautiful soprano voice. She sang the lead in many school productions and over the years was active in various church choirs. During their retirement Joyce and Jerry enjoyed traveling and took many cruises and road trips. She doted on her six grandchildren and they loved her very much. She will be remembered for her empathy and caring ways.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Gerald of Richland, WA; daughter Nina Hoppen and husband Kurt of Tacoma, WA; son Richard and wife Patty of Kennewick, WA; daughter Merrill Smith and husband Gordon of Bloomsburg, PA; six grandchildren: William and Kurina Hoppen, Kelsey and Kevin Martin, Courtney and Joshua Smith; and brother Ted Coates of Tacoma, WA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Gladys Coates, and brother Donald Coates.

Joyce was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Kennewick, WA and a former member of Redeemer Lutheran in Fircrest, WA.

Visitation will be held on Saturday September 1st, 2007 from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Einan's Funeral Home, Richland. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday September 5th 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the Garden Chapel at Mt. View Cemetery, Tacoma, WA.

Remembrances to your local Hospice organization.