Joyce (Carnahan) First passed away Sunday, November 20, 2022 from complications of late onset Multiple Sclerosis. She grew up in Green, OH and graduated from Green High School in 1965. She met the love of her life and husband of 55 years, Paul First, after being set up on a blind date by their scheming fathers. After a handful of dates, a Vietnam deployment, and a long-distance proposal they tied the knot on May 20, 1967.
Joyce knew from the beginning she wanted to be a mom and a homemaker, and she and Paul became foster parents while Paul was stationed in Manases, VA. Later, after their own kids were grown, they would again take on the title of foster parent and raise many more children.
With active-duty Army life behind them, Paul and Joyce moved back to Northeast Ohio settling down in Barberton and finally “The Farm” on Center Road. A devout Christian, Joyce brought Jesus into every aspect of her life, including driving lessons with her daughters. With the Cathedrals on the stereo and a Bible in her hands, she prayed the ENTIRE time. Each of her girls quickly learned the driving lessons should be continued with their dad.
Joyce’s ability to make lasting friendships with anyone she met whether it was at church or in the canned goods isle at the grocery store, she never met a stranger. This wonderful quality brought her great success as a Tupperware Manager and later working for FedEx, where she retired.
Her love for music began with her talents playing both the piano and the organ for her church. She loved the Cathedrals, the Statlers, the Oak Ridge Boys, and could always grab a “microphone” and sing to her favorite song “Cornell Crawford” by KT Oslin.
Joyce had a knack with both cooking and baking but excelled with her cakes and cookies. Her banana cake was legendary, and family and friends will all tell you that if you haven’t had it, you are truly missing out.
She is survived by her husband, Paul. Her favorite first born, Stephanie (Adam) Adolff, grandsons Cameron, CJ, and Phillip. Her favorite middle child Samantha (Chris) Davis, and her favorite “planned” child, Suzi (Kara) First and grandson, Gavin. She also leaves behind her cherished best friends and sisters , Janet (Ross) Barton and Polly (Doyle) Lott as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and a wonderful extended family.
Funeral Services will be held WEDNESDAY, November 23, 2022, 6:00pm at the Swigart-Easterling Funeral Home, 624 Cherry St. E. (Rt. 93) Canal Fulton. Visitation Wednesday 4pm to 6pm at the funeral home. Burial at Ohio Western Reserve will take place at a later date.
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