Joyce Hope Gomez

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She never let challenges diminish her spark, greeting each new day with a spirit buoyed by her faith and her boundless love for others.

With hearts full of gratitude for a life richly lived, we announce the passing of Joyce Hope Gomez, fondly known as JoJo, on August 15, 2026, in Milwaukie, Oregon. Born on September 29, 1944, in Kansas City, Missouri, Joyce’s journey was one marked by kindness, unwavering faith, a love of family, and an indomitable spirit.

Joyce was the cherished daughter of George and Leona (Wright) Borders, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up in Kansas City, where she attended high school, nurturing friendships and the warm social nature that would come to define her presence throughout her entire life.

After her years in Missouri, Joyce found her professional path first in the cafeteria industry in Kansas City, always bringing warmth and a welcoming smile to all she served. Later, after moving to Oregon, she worked for the Commission of the Blind, where her compassion and understanding touched many lives and her positive attitude created lasting impacts on her colleagues and community.

Joyce’s life was grounded by her deep faith and her love of sharing it. She loved to talk to people about God, never shying away from offering an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a listening ear. She raised her children in the church, and despite being legally blind, she navigated motherhood with remarkable strength, fostering a home where faith and joy flourished. Her strong will and commitment were just two of many qualities that inspired all who knew her.

Joyce’s house was always filled with the sound of music and the wonderful aroma of her home-cooked meals. She loved to sing and delighted in cooking for her loved ones. Her home was a haven—always tidy, always welcoming, and full of laughter and the hum of family. Her great sense of humor and friendliness left an imprint on everyone she met. Joyce had the rare ability to make friends wherever she went, a true testament to her sociable and compassionate soul.

The bonds of family meant everything to Joyce. She is survived by her devoted husband, Donnel Gomez, who shared in her joys and challenges with steadfast love. Her legacy continues through her sons, Bobby and wife Jeni Borders and William and wife Shawna Peterson, who remember her gentle guidance and endless encouragement. Joyce’s heart was filled with immense pride for her grandchildren—Ashton Adams, Marshal Borders, Justin Borders, and Austin Reed—each of whom she nurtured, celebrated, and cherished deeply. The light of her love also shines on her adored great-grandchild, Jayce Adams. Though she mourned the loss of her parents, brother, and sisters before her, it was her family who kept her spirit anchored and uplifted until the end.

To those who knew her, Joyce was a beacon of positivity, a friend whose smile brightened rooms, and a storyteller whose faith left lasting hope in every heart she touched. She never let challenges diminish her spark, greeting each new day with a spirit buoyed by her faith and her boundless love for others.

Friends and family are warmly invited to honor Joyce’s memory at the following services. A viewing will be held at Gethsemani Funeral Home, 11666 SE Stevens Road, Happy Valley, OR 97086, on August 26 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. On August 27, a Rosary service will begin at 10:30 am, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St John the Apostle Catholic Church, 410 Center St., Oregon City, OR 97045. Burial will take place at Gethsemani Catholic Cemetery, 11666 SE Stevens Rd., Happy Valley, OR 97086, on August 27 at 12:30 pm, immediately followed by a reception at the same location.

Joyce Hope Gomez leaves behind a legacy of compassion, joy, and unfaltering faith—a gift to all who had the privilege to know and love her. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the countless ways she made the world brighter. She will be dearly missed, and forever remembered.