Obituary of Joyce Flake
With profound sadness and deep love, we announce the passing of Joyce Flake, a woman whose life was a shining example of grace, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family, faith, and community. Joyce passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, at the age of 83, surrounded by the same love she so freely gave to others.
Born on November 6, 1941, in Newark, New Jersey, Joyce was a light from the beginning. As a spirited and bright young woman, she attended North Arlington High School, where she was a proud cheerleader—a role that reflected how she lived her life: lifting others up and celebrating joy wherever she found it.
After high school, she married her soulmate and lifelong partner, Frederick M. Flake Sr. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and never missed an opportunity to dance together. In North Arlington, they laid down roots and created a warm, welcoming home that became the heart of a growing, close-knit family.
Joyce held many roles—bank officer, Rosary Society member, volunteer, neighbor, and friend—but none more treasured than that of mother and grandmother. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she lit up at every milestone. She celebrated every report card, never missed a game or performance, and lovingly crafted Halloween costumes year after year.
Her kitchen was a place of magic and memory, where the scent of her beloved Italian “parmesan” dishes filled the air. She cooked with love, especially on birthdays and family gatherings.
There was no such thing as a forgotten birthday or overlooked moment with Joyce. She remembered everyone, with a card, a call, or a kind word. She was the keeper of connections, the matriarch who bound generations together. In every moment, big or small, she showed up with love.
Later in life, Joyce found joy living near the ocean in her Lions Head community, where she was beloved for her smile, generous spirit, and deep reservoir of kindness. A cherished member, she eagerly took part in community gatherings and activities, sharing her genuine enthusiasm with everyone. Whether she was sharing stories, lending a hand, or simply listening, Joyce made people feel truly seen and valued.
Joyce’s faith was the foundation of her life. A devoted member of the Church of the Visitation, she was a constant presence. She also volunteered at St. Vincent’s Soup Kitchen, living her beliefs through quiet dignity, compassion, and action.
Joyce never had a harsh word for anyone. Truly, her life was a testament to the power of love, acceptance, and compassion. She didn’t need accolades; her reward was in the joy of others, in knowing her children were safe and happy, in staying connected to everyone she loved.
Joyce leaves behind a legacy not written in monuments but in birthday cards tucked in drawers, recipes passed from hand to hand, and the countless lives she touched with her simple, steadfast goodness.
She is now reunited with her beloved husband Frederick Flake Sr., her son Frank Flake, her sister Elaine Stickle, and loved ones who went before her. She is survived by her son Frederick M. Flake Jr. and his wife Ann Marie; her adored grandchildren Zachary Flake, Haley Flake, Micaela Flake, Brielle and William Chow; and her cherished great-grandson, Oliver Chow.
To honor Joyce’s memory, please consider a charitable contribution to the Visitation Relief Center, which is part of her church. Donations can be made at www.inmemof.org.
Friends and family are welcome to a memorial visitation for Joyce on Wednesday, May 28th, from 1 to 3 PM at Norman Dean home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ. A Memorial Mass will take place on Thursday, May 29th at 10:00AM at St. Mary`s Church, Denville, NJ. Please join us to celebrate her life, and leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Joyce`s light shine.
