Joyce Clapp

Joyce Ilien Clapp (12/22-1932-12/13/2024), 91, of Long Lake Cloverdale, Delton, Michigan passed away peacefully on December 13th at White Oaks Assisted Living in Lawton, Mi, surrounded by loved ones.

Joyce was born on December 22, 1932, in Otsego, Michigan to George and Viola Briggs (Minegar) She attended Otsego High School and graduated in 1951. She pursued a career as Purchasing Agent. She was a trailblazer for equality in the workforce for women and fought for equal pay. Joyce was known for being an amazing businesswoman as well as a lover of the lake and camping. She spent many years enjoying snowmobile trail riding and bowling as well. She and her beloved husband, Dick, made friends and had fun wherever they went. She was a snowbird resident for many years in Punta Gorda, Florida and New Port Ritchie, Florida.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Richard Clapp of 73 years, her daughter, Deborah Gust (Gerry Gust, Deceased) of Mesa, Az, her son, Keith Clapp of Mattawan, Mi., her Grandchildren, Nikki and (Tom )Barnett of Paw Paw, Mi., Kyle and (Julia) Fredrickson of San Jose, CA, Kirsten and (Ben) Flint of San Tan Valley, Az. and 3 great grandchildren, Grace Barnett, Lucy Barnett and Maia Fredrickson. She was predeceased by her mother and father, George and Viola Briggs and 4 siblings: Tom, George Jr, Donna and Dick Briggs.

In lieu of a memorial service, her family and friends would love to hear stories of her life. She was such a vibrant person, always funny and full of life. It would give us comfort at this time to receive written stories about what others loved about Joyce or a specific story they would like to share. Please send written stories to Nikki Barnett at 51392 Jordan St, Paw Paw, Mi 49079

You can also share online. While visiting Joyce’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Fems for Dems at femsfordems.org. Fems for Dems is an all-volunteer organization that relies on donations from the community to elect democrats at all levels. Joyce was a long-time democrat and fought for women’s rights all of her life. She would be thrilled to have you donate to this non-profit organization in her name. Please donate in memory of Joyce Clapp.

The family is being assisted by the Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 129 S. Grand St. in Schoolcraft. 269 679-5622 

We will hold Joyce’s spirit in our hearts and know that she is watching over us. *“Well-behaved women seldom make history” – Laurel Thatcher Ulrich*