Joyce Carolyn LaRue, 85, of Benton Ridge, peacefully left us to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Monday, February 17, 2025, at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Katy, Texas.

Joyce was born on February 11, 1940, in Ada, Ohio, to John and Cecile (Baughman) Collins and on August 9, 1959, married her sweetheart, William “Bill” LaRue.

Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband, her brothers Earl, Edward and John Collins, her sisters Betty Rodabaugh, Ellen Price, Mildred Price, Carol Coons, and Patricia “Miss” Collins.

She is survived by her sons, Kurt (Ilda) LaRue, Ellenton, Florida, Mark LaRue, Benton Ridge, and her daughter Jennifer (Ken) Croy, Katy, Texas. Also surviving are her grandchildren Brian (Lauren), Austin (Ashley), Gabby, Andy, Dakota, and Graham LaRue, and Megan (Jonathon) Whitmore, and Emilee Croy, as well as her great-grandchildren, Maddie, Mason, Avery and Paisley LaRue. Also, numerous nieces and nephews.

Joyce was a true homemaker as well as a skilled seamstress. She played the flute and piano and had a beautiful singing voice, which she enjoyed sharing in church. She loved flowers and butterflies, but she found the most joy in her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and had a special bond with each of them. She also enjoyed corresponding with members of the U.S. military, writing them encouraging letters to support their service.

Friends and family are invited to visit from 9:30-11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Chiles-Laman Funeral Home, 239 S. Main St., Bluffton, Ohio. Funeral service will follow visitation at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Kelly Sterling officiating.

Memorial contributions in Joyce’s name may be made to Smile Train or AdoptAPlatoon.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/