Obituary of Joyce Hazel Birch

Joyce was born in Salt Lake City, UT on April 12, 1934 to goodly parents, Egbert and Hazel Sainsbury. She married Norman Birch on Sept. 30, 1954 for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her beloved spouse of over 50 years passed away September 1, 2011. Living throughout the United States and raising her family, Joyce has had the opportunity to touch countless lives through her service in the gospel of Jesus Christ. From sharing her beautiful singing voice or teaching her love of the scriptures to hundreds of seminary students, for over 10 years. No greater time and service has she rendered than in raising her 10 children and blessing, loving and influencing the lives of her 38 grandchildren. Joyce has had the opportunity to travel the United States and the world seeing many sites from Russia's St. Basil's Cathedral to the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean to the haunting ruins of Machu Picchu to the majestic glaciers of Alaska - but she was never more happy than spending time with her family. Settled among the woodland beauty of her Georgia home, she has watched the branches of her own family tree grow and strengthen for over 45 years. Joyce attended the University of Utah. She is survived by her only brother, Bert Sainsbury of Salt Lake City, UT; her sister-in-law, Wanda King of Midvale, UT; and all 10 of her children and their spouses; as well as 37 grandchildren (grandson, Rhett Fisher passed away in March 2014) and five great grandchildren. Joyce was beloved by all. Her thoughtful heart and concern for others came from her valiant testimony and love for following the example of her Savior, Jesus Christ. Memorial services will be held on Aug. 18 at 11 a.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 4833 Suwanee Dam Rd., Suwanee, GA. Joyce will be interred at Hamilton Mill Memorial Gardens in Buford, GA.