Joyce Ann Wassilchak – Apex, N.C., formerly of Monessen

Joyce Ann Wassilchak, 87, of Apex, N.C., formerly of Monessen, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 3, 2024. Joyce was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and friend. She was born on March 31, 1936, in Monessen, to Elfing Swalin and Yolanda Dastalfo Swalin. Joyce was always known as “Nonny” to her grandchildren and great-granddaughters. After attending Pittsburgh School of Business, Joyce returned to the Monessen School District where she would establish her career. Joyce worked for the Monessen School district for many years as a secretary in the High School. Joyce had a vibrant personality and a wide range of interests. She enjoyed vacations with her family on the Outer Banks of North Carolina for many years, as well as interior decorating and collecting recipes. She had a deep love for animals and cared for many pets throughout her life. Joyce and her husband John moved to North Carolina in 2005, to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Joyce leaves behind a loving family, including her two sons, Kevin J and wife Lori of Cumming, Ga., Ryan R and wife Pamela of Apex, N.C. She is also survived by her six grandchildren and two great-granddaughters, Ryan M Wassilchak (and partner Amanda Dickerson) of Apex, N.C., Sarah Wassilchak Brookwell (and husband Cameron) of Bolivia, N.C., John M Wassilchak (and wife Parker) of Charlotte, N.C., Leah M Wassilchak (and fiancé Justin Medwar) of Wilmington, N.C. and Arden and Avery Wassilchak of Cumming, Ga. Great-granddaughters include Kennedy Rae and Lainey Grace Brookwell, daughters of Sarah and Cameron Brookwell. Additionally, Joyce is survived by her sister-in-law, Sharon (Gido) Swalin of Monessen; nieces, Shannon Indolf of Belle Vernon and Deborah Makar of Monessen; nephews, Sean (and wife Melissa) of San Fransisco, Calif and Richard Swalin Jr. of Belle Vernon. Joyce is also survived, and will be greatly missed, by her lifelong friends, Patty (Pellick) Fee and Barbara (Reday) Geist. Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, John; parents, Elfing and Yolanda; and brothers, Richard and Dennis Swalin. Joyce found solace and community in her faith. She worshiped at Word of Life Church while living in Pennsylvania and Hope Community Church after moving to North Carolina. A celebration of Joyce’s life was held while she was living her final weeks. She was surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-granddaughters, neighbors, and friends. Joyce Ann Wassilchak will be remembered as the Queen of her children’s hearts and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Apex Funeral Home assisted the family with the final arrangements.