Joyce Ann Moore

Joyce was born Joyce Ann Rickner in Wyandotte, Oklahoma on October 29. 1941 to Sophronia Ann Captain Rickner (“Babe”) and Rev. Ray Everett Rickner. She was the youngest of the five Rickner siblings.

Joyce excelled in academics and music. After graduating from Wyandotte High School, she attended Oklahoma State University majoring in music and was an accomplished pianist. She continued her education at the University of Tulsa, receiving her Master of Arts degree. She was forever an OSU Cowboy fan.

Joyce married Merle W. Moore on December 23, 1978. She could count on Merle to support her in her athletic endeavors which included cycling and running. Her favorite ride was the annual Freewheel Oklahoma with Merle faithfully driving ahead to meet her at the next stop. They made the most of their time together until Merle passed away in 2008.

Joyce had no children of her own, but she had thousands. Joyce taught music and speech in the Tulsa Public School system for decades. After retirement she volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House and was a precinct official for the Tulsa County Election Board. She was also proud of her Native American heritage as a member of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Alvina Truelove, Betty Cline, and Raydean Francisco. She is survived by her only brother, Donald Rickner and by several nieces and nephews, many who were at her side as she rode her last mile.

A small family service for Joyce will be held at a later date.