Joyce Ross

Born in Alpena, Michigan on January 5, 1934, she was the daughter of James and Pearl (Gengerke) Copping.

Joyce grew up in Alpena, graduating from Alpena High School in 1951. She briefly attended Central Michigan University, before returning home upon the unexpected death of her father.

Joyce lived in Alpena, where she raised her three sons with her first husband, Richard B. “Dick” Piper. She worked for time as a secretary at Alpena Community College. In 1974 she married George L. Ross in Alpena. They lived in Shelby Township for 40 years and moved to Gaylord when George retired. Joyce worked part-time as a church secretary during their years in Shelby Township. During their retirement years they enjoyed traveling with their camper, visiting every state except Hawaii.

Joyce was a long-time and faithful member of Gaylord Methodist Church, and the Gaylord Methodist Women circle. She was an avid reader who will be remembered by her friends and family for her handmade personal greeting cards.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George; her son, Steven; her stepson, Timothy Ross; brothers Ken and Bruz Copping; and her parents, James and Pearl Copping.

Surviving are her sons, Rick Piper and David Piper, both of Alpena; grandchildren, Steven (Anna) Piper, Richard Piper, Ian Piper, Mindy Stevens, Hilary (Scott) Robinette; and great-grandchildren, Remy, Lily, Reid, Hannah, and Hailee, Brinley, Titan, Atticus, Rylie, Katie, and one on the way; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, October 10, 2025 at Gaylord Methodist Church where visitation will begin at 12:00 noon.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to Gaylord Methodist Women.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at gaylordfuneralhome.com/obituaries/joyce-ross.