Julia Joyce Raymond Gangel

Julia “Joyce” Raymond Gangel 5/31/43 - 9/22/25 She was more than just a matriarch; she was a grandmother to everyone she met, always ready with a warm smile. Those who knew her became part of her family, cherished by her loving spirit and unwavering kindness. Born in 1943 to second-generation Hungarian immigrants and Western Pennsylvania coal miners, she later resided on her grandparents’ farm on Route 38 in Southampton, New Jersey. There, she cultivated a profound bond with her grandparents, extended family, and learned the value of hard work. She attended the Southampton School district and was the first graduating class of Lenape High School. Denied the opportunity to pursue her dream of architecture when she was young, she demonstrated remarkable strength and determination by returning to college at age 40, after her children were grown. She began her nursing studies at Stockton University and later earned a Master’s degree as a Nurse Practitioner with a specialty in geriatrics from the University of Pennsylvania. Her dedication to caring for others was profound, touching the lives of many. She went on to serve as Director of Nursing at several nursing home facilities in South Jersey, leading with compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of her patients and staff. Upon retirement, she became an Adjunct Professor at Burlington County College teaching clinical to the next generation of nurses. Additionally she embraced a new venture, owning and operating a family-run Curves fitness franchise for nearly a decade. Throughout her life, she was an artist, mentor, a kind soul, and an entrepreneur—qualities that shaped her creative spirit and compassionate approach to the world. Outside of her family and career, she was a great cook, an amazing hostess, and a bookworm. She loved collecting antiques and vintage cars, seeing beauty and history in every piece. Gardening was her favorite way to relax and enjoy nature, especially tending to her orchids and watching the hummingbirds flit around the blossoms. She had a tradition of walking barefoot in the first snow of the season. Joyce held a deep affection for Ocean City, NJ, where she found solace and happy memories with her grandchildren through the years. Her home of nearly 50 years in Juliustown, New Jersey, was known as a place of joy, where many family gatherings were held, creating fond memories by the pool, along the railroad tracks, riding golf carts, and in the lively basement game room. It was a sanctuary filled with laughter, love, and togetherness. Joyce was born to the late Jackson Raymond and Julia Ann Kadar Raymond in Chalkhill, Pa on May 31, 1943. She was predeceased by sister Delores Jakob and brother John Raymond (Robin) and survived by brothers Roger Raymond (Kathleen) and Gary Raymond. Joyce leaves behind her devoted husband of 50 years, Bill Gangel Jr and children Marty Gangel and Valerie Hopkins Dietz, and stepchildren William, Edward, and Michelle Gangel. Her grandchildren Priscilla (Lindsey) Smith, Brittany (Wayne) Stackhouse, Martin Gangel, Serena Gangel, Kyra Gangel, and Spencer Gangel cherished her as a guiding light and source of unconditional support. Her great-grandchildren Oliver Smith, Evelyn Smith, and Warren Stackhouse. Her nurturing heart touched numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members, as well as the many friends who quickly became family. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and unconditional love. Her memory lives on in the stories shared and the countless lives she nurtured throughout her extraordinary journey.

Julia Joyce Raymond Gangel

May 31, 1943 - September 22, 2025