SWAN’S ISLAND

Robert McKay Joyce, 88, died, after a 10-month illness, May 8, 2004, at Westgate Manor in Bangor. He was born April 23, 1916, on Swan’s Island, the son of G. Carlton and Bessie (McKay) Joyce.

He attended the island schools and lived there all his life. Robert became a Christian at age 17, trusting in Jesus alone to save him and give him eternal life. From that point on, his life was guided by that decision, as he sincerely tried to live by God’s principles. He married Roberta Simmons in 1938, led her to the Lord, and loved her faithfully. They were married for 64 years. He was faithful and an active member of the Minturn Advent Christian Church as a deacon, trustee and musician. He taught himself to play the saxophone and harmonica. He taught music to his children and encouraged them to sing and play for God and others, as well as for their own fun and enjoyment. Robert made Christian camp meetings a regular part of family summers, which greatly influenced his children’s spiritual and social development. Though he suffered since childhood with hernias, he worked hard and praised God for the blessing of being able to earn a living by doing what he loved most, lobstering. He was respected and, he believed, blessed for his commitment, to never haul his traps on Sunday, but to obey God’s command to rest. That was the day for church and family fun. His wife and children often wished he didn’t love his work quite so much, but they never doubted his love for them. One of the greatest gifts he ever gave his children was the security of life-long commitment to their mother. Through the years Robert was very active in the Maine Lobsterman’s Association, working passionately on one cause or another. He and Roberta made many friends and happy memories at the Annual Fisherman’s Forum. He also served his community in various ways including positions as selectman and constable. With the exception of one year in youth serving on the crew of a private yacht, he was a lobsterman all his life. Though he enjoyed several traveling experiences in this country and a cruise to the islands of the southern Caribbean, he always said, “When I get back on Swan’s Island, I’m never going anywhere again.” Robert’s family and friends, including his caregivers to the end, will always remember his wonderful sense of humor and his gift of storytelling. They are comforted by God’s promise that those who trust in Jesus will one day be reunited forever.

Robert is survived by five children, son, Carlton and wife, Pacita; daughter, Bonnie Staples and husband, Donnie; son, Matthew and his wife, Candis, all of Swan’s Island; daughter, Laverne Craig and husband, Michael, of Clinton; and daughter, Sharon Butterfield and husband, Jim, of Maryville, Tenn.; 15 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Roberta (Simmons) Joyce; an infant son, Timothy; a sister, Phyllis Staples; and a brother, Llewellyn Joyce.

A graveside service was held May 12, 2004, at Rose Hill Cemetery, Swan’s Island. In lieu of flowers, those who desire may make contributions in Robert’s memory to the Minturn Advent Christian Church or the Ambulance Fund, both of Swan’s Island. Arrangements in care of Jordan-Fernald Funeral Home, 1139 Main St., Mount Desert.