Joyce Ann Ferneau

Joyce Ann Ferneau, 82, of Chillicothe, was called to her heavenly home on 2/2/2026. She was born on May 13, 1943, in Salyersville, Kentucky, the daughter of the late Roman and Lola Montgomery.

Joyce is survived by her children, Jeffrey David Ferneau of Chillicothe and Jodi (Jeffery) Kritz of South Bloomfield; her five grandchildren, Jessica, Joseph, Jaclyn Ferneau, Jayla, and Julianne Kritz; and her four great‑grandchildren, Brecken, Cora, Matthew, and Maeve. She is also survived by her sister Jean Neff; brothers Harold and Rick (Tammy) Montgomery; sister‑in‑laws: Ann (Mike) Sloan, Ruth and Marilyn Ferneau; brother‑in‑law John (Sandy) Ferneau; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph David Ferneau, whom she married on September 11, 1964. They shared more than 60 blessed years together before his passing on August 11, 2024. Joyce was also preceded in death by her parents; her father‑in‑law Harry Paul Ferneau and mother‑in‑law Mary Catherine (Cameron) Ferneau; siblings and siblings‑in‑law Lowell Thomas and Pauline Montgomery, Kenneth and Mary Montgomery, Estell Montgomery, Mondell Montgomery and Roger Neff; and brothers-in-law and sisters‑in‑law Betty Cyre, Jim Waddell, Robert, William, and Paul (“Mouse”) Ferneau.

Joyce lived a life filled with joy, gratitude, and love. She embraced life with a vibrant spirit, finding joy in sun‑soaked days at the beach, playing cards, good music, and the excitement of a casino visit. Her happiest moments were spent with her family, whether gathered at home, traveling, or sharing stories over a meal. She treasured a special trip to Hawaii with her daughter Jodi and looked forward each year to the car shows in the Great Smoky Mountains with her husband Joe, sister Jean, and brother‑in‑law Roger.

A devoted Elvis Presley fan, Joyce found delight in his music and memorabilia. She also loved dining out, with Bob Evans on Western Avenue being her favorite local spot. The staff there quickly embraced Joyce and Joe as “Grandma and Grandpa,” keeping their favorite booth ready for their daily breakfast visits.

Joyce worked at Chillicothe Furniture and at Kroger, where she retired after 38 years of dedicated service. She was known for her warm personality and remarkable memory, often greeting customers by name and making each person feel valued.

Joyce accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior, securing the blessed hope that now welcomes her into her eternal home. Joyce’s kindness, humor, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held 1 pm Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Smith-Moore-Ebright Funeral Home, Bainbridge. Burial will be in the Twin Township Cemetery at a later date. Friends may call from 11 am until 1 pm Saturday.