Joyce Ann Sapienza

5/17/1938 - 3/16/2025

Born in Louisville, KY, Joyce passed peacefully on 03/16/2025, In the light of the holy spirit and is now home.

She is survived by her children: Dawn Ashbury Adams; Larry Adams—husband; Andrew Ashbury; Suzi Ashbury—wife; Christopher Ashbury; James Sapienza Jr.; Rita—partner; Paolo Sapienza; Mitra Sapienza—wife; and Jeanne Sapienza. Her beloved grandchildren: Kylee Ashbury; Lindsay Adams; Chris—partner; Alena Sapienza; Juan—husband; Niko Sapienza; Hunter Sapienza; Michael—husband; Jenner Sapienza; Marcello Sapienza; and Coco Sapienza.

She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Matt Cammuso; Daniel Cammuso; Mia Leber; David Jones Jr.; Susan Jones; Daniel Jones; Matthew Jones; Carol Jones; Lynda Fadler; and Betty Crenshaw.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Zola DeWitt, and her siblings, Leo DeWitt; Joseph DeWitt; Wanda DeWitt; and Helen Cammuso.

Joyce grew up in Louisville, KY, with her loving older sisters Wanda and Helen after their parents passed away when she was very young. She spoke of how wonderful it was being part of the vibrant extended family surrounding her on Confederate Place.

She married Lee Ashbury when she was 20 and gave birth to three children: Dawn, Andy, and Chris. They moved around to different parts of the country, due to Lee’s work, and Joyce made sure each home was lovely. She adored decorating and had an innate talent for interior design. A true patron of the arts and avid antiques collector, her surroundings always captured peoples’ eyes and imaginations. Her houses reflected the rhythms of her young family and the many dogs that inhabited them. She was a true dog lover her entire life, beginning with Mickey, a Boston Terrier her family had when she was very young.

But her greatest loves were her children. A gourmet cook, she enjoyed cooking for her family and making each child’s favorite foods. After her children had grown older, she presented each with a home-bound cookbook filled with family recipes and illustrated by her brother-in-law, Mike. Her generosity extended to her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, who were often present and made to feel so welcome in her homes.

The family traveled often, relishing the cultures and flavors of England, Italy, and France. And the travels helped her to indulge in one of her greatest passions—shopping. Her shopping missions were both palpable and relentless. She could outlast people half her age and discover the “gem” that everyone else had overlooked. She also loved reading and always had a book in her hand, usually a crime novel or history book. At the age of 40 she began a career in nursing, specializing in geriatrics and providing the same dedication to her patients she had always shown her family. The very special bond she developed with her patients gave her an overwhelming sense of fulfillment.

From within, her gentle countenance shined as brightly as her favorite colors of yellow and orange. Her lifetime joy of gardening was always evident, with bouquets of dancing colors displayed throughout her home. Even the foods she cooked were presented with an eye for natural beauty. It was all part of her vision for a beautiful life that she so graciously shared with her many loved ones.

Joyce’s family thanks the staff at Belmont Village St. Matthews and her hospice team for the care, kind words, love, and support. Your compassion and grace touched our hearts and we will be forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, Epiphany Catholic Church, Hosparus of Louisville, or in honor of Dexter, The Shamrock Society. Joyce would have also welcomed a smile, touch, or prayer for someone in need.

A private Celebration of Life will be held by Joyce’s family.