Joyce Kesley Madello

December 27, 1923 - April 6, 2020

Joyce Kesley Madello, age 96 of Silver Spring, MD died April 6, 2020. Born to Edger and Josephine Robinson Kesley on December 27, 1923 in Roseville, GA. Joyce spent much of her childhood in Chattanooga, TN. These formative childhood years laid the foundation for her sweet southern charm so endearing to those who knew her. In 1935, as a result of the Great Depression, Joyce moved with her family to Washington DC, where employment was more plentiful. Joyce was a young financial contributor to the family. By 1940 she had secured a steady sales position at Woodward & Lothrop Department Store; a job she cherished and spoke fondly of throughout her life. 1943 proved to be a milestone year in Joyce’s life. This year was the start of her government career at the Washington Navy Yard. 1943 was also the year she met her beloved husband of 60 years, Alphonse Madello. In 1958 as Joyce was about to give birth to her youngest child, the couple moved to their lifetime home in Silver Spring, MD. The mother of four, Joyce’s maternal devotions reached beyond her children to relatives and young friends in need of parental support. Her door was always open, her table always full. Life centered around that table where great food, family business, love, fear and contagious laughter was shared. Joyce was a woman of faith and a founding member of The First Baptist Church of Wheaton. The relationships forged in lifetime service to the church meant the world to her. Joyce was fun loving with an active social life. The Madello’s address book was filled with a list of lifetime friends whom she and Al adored. In turn, those friends were drawn to her sweet yet insightful nature. Joyce loved her home, had a flair for style and an impeccable sense of fashion. At age 70 Joyce retired from the Naval Surface Weapons Center’s radiation division. During her service as administrative division secretary she received numerous awards in recognition of outstanding contributions. Joyce was predeceased by husband: Alphonse J. Madello, siblings: Albert l. Kesley, Gladys Behlen, June Polakoff. She is survived by: children Robert J. Madello, Kenneth L. Madello, (wife Pamela Kerr), Terri Hume (husband Richard Hume), Vincent D. Madello (partner Holly Woods). Ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, numerous nieces and nephews.