Joyce Ann Stepp

Surrounded by her loving family, Joyce Ann Stepp passed away Monday, February 17, at her home in Edgewood, New Mexico. She was born on January 25, 1941, in Eufala, Oklahoma, to James Maitlan and Maggie Pickle. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Errol Stepp, and their three children, Dr. Perry Stepp (wife Beth) of Dallas, Texas; Kelly Benthem (husband Jack) of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Kara Stepp of Edgewood, New Mexico and Xining, China. She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Kayla Stepp, Anna Stepp Price (husband Chris), Joshua Stepp, Moriah Benthem, Sarah Danielle Benthem, David Benthem, Michael Benthem and Elisa Benthem, as well as a brother, James Pickle, of Wichita, Kansas. Joyce and Errol were married May 18, 1962, and celebrated over 50 years together in Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. She shared in Errol’s ministry to the Lord Jesus in churches, as well as ministering in teaching, fellowship and music. She and Errol planted Valley View Christian Church in Edgewood in 1986. Following business college in Wichita, Kansas, Joyce worked in banks. She then graduated from New Mexico Junior College and College of the Southwest in Hobbs, New Mexico, with degrees in accounting. She worked many years in accounting as a CPA, and later as the controller for Western Office Systems in Albuquerque. After retirement, she became fascinated with beading and made many wonderful pieces of jewelry. She also continued her involvement in her church, where her quiet influence encouraged many to follow Jesus more closely. She was a faithful servant of Jesus Christ, living out his grace throughout her life and last days. She was a loving wife, encouraging mom, and doting grandmother. A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 24, at 1 pm at Valley View Christian Church in Edgewood, New Mexico, with a private burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to CareNet Pregnancy Center of Albuquerque, PO Box 21962, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87154 or online at www.carenetabq.org.