Joyce A. Brooking

Joyce Ann Brooking, born March 29, 1950, of Pleasant Mount PA passed away July 20, 2026 after an unexpected illness at the age of 76. Joyce was born in Carbondale, daughter of the late Stacy and Helen Bucinell Gardner. She was a graduate of the 1968 class of Forest City High School.

She was predeceased by her husband Edward S. Brooking Jr. of nearly 45 years. They were married on July 26, 1969. Joyce was Ed's partner on their Farview Farm in Pleasant Mount where they raised 4 children.

She is survived by her children Michele Brooking (Fay) of Starlight PA., Edward Brooking (Becky) of Easton PA., Brian Brooking (William) of Montgomery PA., and Beth Brooking of Muncy PA. Also surviving one grandson, E. Spencer Brooking of Easton PA.

Joyce is survived by her sister Ann Marie Janezic of Forest City PA.

She was preceded in death by her sisters Mary Mindas, Barbara Allen, and a brother Stacy Gardner Jr.

Joyce had a passion for reading and a spirit always ready to travel, enjoying trips as far west as Hawaii and east to London and Paris and many destinations in between. One of her greatest pleasures was relaxing on the front porch while admiring the scenic view of the Catskill Mountains. She took immense pride in her home, keeping the farmhouse and surrounding property meticulously maintained. Every detail of the property reflected her deep care, love, and tireless work.

Joyce was an avid gardener, who spent countless hours cultivating stunning flowers and fresh produce. Her hands were rarely still, and her home was a welcoming sanctuary where neighbors and family alike were always treated to the literal fruits of her labor. Her love extended into her kitchen, where she was a master baker and cook known for her pies, black magic cake, and spaghetti with meatballs, or Spencer's favorite, macaroni and bread crumbs. She always enjoyed Words with Friends, the daily Wordle challenge and lively competitive card games. She taught us that the most beautiful things in life require time, attention, and above all, love.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026 at 12:30 PM at the Howell Family Funeral Home, Inc., Edward R. Howell, Funeral Director, 269 Belmont Street, Waymart, PA 18472. Visitation hours will be on Friday morning from 10:00 AM - Noon at the funeral home.

Interment will be Friday at the Wheeler Hill Cemetery, Pleasant Mount, PA.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution can be made in Joyce's memory to the Pleasant Mount Public Library at 375 Great Bend Turnpike, Pleasant Mount PA 18453. Planting your own tree or a flower garden in memory of Joyce is a meaningful way to honor her.