Harriet Y. Luce

Harriet Y, Luce, 86 of Crest Hill, IL passed away May 26,2024 at Lightways Hospice House with her daughter and son in law by her side.

Harriet was born in Braceville, IL the youngest child of Frank and Dorothy (Cook) Yoder.

She grew up in her hometown and later graduated from Gardner-South Wilmington High School class of 1955 which had 26 original classmates. Their alumni still meets occasionally over the recent years. After graduation she worked at the Joliet Army Ammunition plant in Wilmington, IL, and in various secretarial roles then finally retiring from Deaton-Kennedy Company after 28 years. She never passed up the opportunity to talk to people whether she knew them or not about almost anything. She was always ready with a quip or a saucy comment.

Harriet really loved gardening, her flowers, and took pride in her yard so much so that she achieved her Master Gardener certificate. She enjoyed crossword puzzles and started each day with at least two. She loved her animals -especially her dogs. Camping with husband, Bud in their various campers and 5th wheel and traveling to various states was a favorite pastime. She also loved a yummy cocktail and chocolate- in all forms.

Harriet believed in giving back to the community and volunteered as a Respite Care worker for Joliet Area Community Hospice- now known as Lightways Hospice, served at Will County Animal Shelter and delivered Meals on Wheels.

A long-time congregant of Hope United Methodist Church where she served in various capacities and sewed with the "Bag Ladies” who sewed totes for school children in foreign nations as part of an outreach program.

Preceded in death by her husband of 26 years, Harold "Bud” Luce-Crest Hill,IL., Parents Frank and Dorothy Yoder of Braceville, sisters Arlene (Lloyd) Decker of Braceville; Delores (Glenn) Hammond Braceville, Shirley (Elmer) Rolando of Diamond, IL; and one brother Lester Yoder-Braceville.

Survived by daughter Terry (Matt) Karales of Joliet, and numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends. 2 stepdaughters: Suzonne Pulaski and Myrna Luce.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made in her name to Hope United Methodist Church, 2506 Caton Farm Road, Joliet IL, or Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet,IL. 60431.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of life will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024 from 10:00 A.M to 12:30 P.M. with a chapel service beginning at 12:30 P.M. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd. Joliet,IL. Inurnment will be held privately at a later date at Braceville Gardner Cemetery in Braceville,IL.