John Paul Joyce

John Paul Joyce (Jack), a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, at the age of 86 in Duxbury, Massachusetts. Born in Quincy, Massachusetts, on January 7, 1939, Jack lived a life richly woven with service to his community, dedication to his family, and a passion for the simple joys of everyday life. Jack proudly served as a veteran of the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he embarked on a career with the Massachusetts State Police, retiring as a Major, and later with Jay Cashman Inc. A graduate of Archbishop Williams High School, Jack furthered his education at Boston College, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree, and later obtained a Master’s in Urban Affairs from Boston University.

In 1968, Jack married the love of his life, Paula White Joyce, and together they shared a remarkable journey for 57 years. Their bond was not only a marriage but a deep friendship, characterized by their mutual love and support. Together, they created a home filled with laughter and warmth, raising three children: John P. Joyce Jr. (Jake) of Charlottesville, Virginia; Amy Joyce Hughes of Franklin, Massachusetts; and Neal P. Joyce of Quincy, Massachusetts. Jack’s legacy lives on through his three cherished grandchildren: Jacqueline Grace Joyce, Arthur Red Joyce, and Jack William Hughes. Jack found immense joy in spending time with his grandchildren. He often took them to the beach and on walks for ice cream at The Hot Chocolate Sparrow. He famously tended to his yards in Duxbury and Orleans, nurturing impressive rhododendrons, and doing his own mowing well into his 80s! Religiously devoted to reading the newspapers every morning, Jack kept himself updated with the world around him. After his retirement, he embraced a leisurely lifestyle filled with walks through the neighborhood and cranberry bogs, enjoying breakfast outings with Paula (particularly to Dunkin Donuts for his favorite coffee and blueberry muffin), and relishing time spent at the local library.

Jack’s love for family extended to his siblings, Thomas Joyce of Estero, Florida; Lillian Hannigan of Naples, Florida; and Richard Joyce of Duxbury. He is also remembered by his daughter-in-law Carrie Miller of Charlottesville, VA, his son-in-law Todd Hughes of Franklin, MA, sister-in-law, Jane Nagle Joyce of Boston, Massachusetts, and brother-in-law, James P. White of Evanston, Illinois, along with countless nieces and nephews. Jack is pre-deceased by his parents William Joyce and Lillian Joyce (nee Sheehan) and his siblings William Joyce, Daniel Joyce, Edward Joyce and sister-in-law Mary W. Reilly. 

Jack will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him; his kindness, gentle spirit and unwavering passion for life will forever be remembered.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Friday 10/24/2025 from 4-7 PM in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St. (off Central St.), Hingham. On Saturday 10-25-25, a Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Church - Duxbury, at 10 AM. Cremation will follow. See www.Keohane.com for directions and online condolences.