Joyce Helen Gaimari's Obituary
Beloved matriarch, Joyce Helen Gaimari, affectionately known as “Ma” and “Nana,” age 85 of Dunedin, Florida, passed away on Saturday, January 29, 2022, in the company of loving family. She joins precious family gone before her in Heaven: her beloved mother, Burtelle Heekin; dearest father, Frank D’Amato; Raymond Gaimari, the father of her children; Marzetta McElligott (“Auntie Detta”); Ellen McElligott; and Hazel Salberg, to name a few. She is survived by her three children: Judy, Steven and Gina Jo, to whom she spent her life so devoted. She also leaves behind adoring grandchildren: Keeshia, Jason & Marissa Jo; as well as great-grandchildren: Samuel James (“Sammy”), Naomi Rose and Alaia Noelle; and her brother, Emmett Heekin Jr.
Joyce shared love and praise of her family endlessly, both personally and in prayer, and found great importance in ensuring that her family knew how loved they were. Joyce was born on December 1, 1936, to Burtelle Heekin and Frank D’Amato, in Chicago, Illinois. She often shared cherished childhood memories of growing up on Lockwood Avenue and spending summers on her grandparents' farm.
With her children grown, she found great joy tending to her kitties, collecting special bears, and spending time in the kitchen. Joyce remained positive and grateful throughout her days, with a candle and prayer at the ready for her loved ones in need.
May her capacity to love live on through us all ~
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Hospital appreciated at: www.stjude.org\give.html.
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