1962 - 2026
Joyce Marie Pleu Schiff was born on April 9, 1962, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, to William J. and Florence B. Pleu of Lee. As the fifth of their children, her arrival was nothing new to her parents, but her life would go on to be anything but ordinary. She grew up in the Berkshires, attending St. Mary’s Parochial School in Lee for elementary and junior high, and later graduating from Lee High School in 1980. During her school years, she was actively involved in sports, art, music, sewing, Quiz Team, and enjoyed all the classic high school experiences.
Following graduation, Joyce continued both her academic and athletic journey at North Adams State College. It was there that she met Andrew Schiff of Wayland, Massachusetts—the man who would become her heart, her soulmate, and the love of her life. The two were married in 1983 and built a life full of love, adventure, and deep connection.
Joyce dedicated 39 years of her career to Raytheon Company before retiring in 2020. While it was work, it was also a place where she formed lifelong friendships. She took great pride in the work she contributed to, especially knowing it supported those serving the country and helped keep others safe.
Family meant everything to Joyce. She and Andrew were blessed with many nieces and nephews—along with a growing number of great-nieces and great-nephews—whom she adored. Family gatherings, especially the legendary Pleu parties, were filled with dancing, card games, laughter, storytelling, and unforgettable memories.
Joyce and Andrew embraced life fully, working hard but also making sure to enjoy every moment. Their adventures took them across the country and around the world—from the Caribbean to Europe. They shared countless experiences together: golfing, skiing in the Tetons, sharing a kiss at the top of the Eiffel Tower, visiting casinos, climbing, zip-lining, skydiving, and creating lifelong memories with their close-knit group of friends known as “The 6 Pk+.” Joyce was happiest surrounded by Andrew, her family, and her friends.
In retirement, Joyce and Andrew spent their winters in Naples, Florida, where they formed new friendships and embraced new hobbies. Joyce discovered a passion for pickleball, which quickly became a favorite pastime.
In 2019, Joyce’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. Through it all, Andrew stood by her side as a devoted caregiver—serving as her chef, chauffeur, caretaker, and constant support. She never faced an appointment or treatment alone, a testament to his unwavering love and dedication.
Along her journey, Joyce formed meaningful connections with many people, some of whom became like family. She often described them as pieces of her “abundant life quilt,” each contributing warmth, love, and comfort.
Joyce hoped that throughout her life she was a good wife, a loving aunt, a loyal friend, a dependable employee, a great listener, a gracious host, and an enthusiastic organizer of fun and mischief. Above all, she wished to be remembered for making people laugh, smile, or feel cared for through kind words and actions.
In addition to her beloved husband Andrew, Joyce is survived by her six siblings: F. Jane Barbini (Richard) of Southwick, MA; Junie Pleu (Shelly) of Canton, GA; Robin Brown (David) of Lee, MA; Colleen Tomlinson of Mildred, PA (Earl, deceased 2023); Mikki Thomoson (Tim) of Friendship, ME; and June Mullen (Stephen) of Petoskey, MI. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Jonathan Schiff (Cookie) of Andover, MA; sisters-in-law Debbie Robinson of Pickerington, OH (Bert, deceased 2021) and Amy Rosse (Michael) of Marlborough, MA; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. As Joyce proudly said, “We are family!”
She also leaves behind her lifelong friends in The 6 Pk+, as well as the Ashby and Kilduff families.
Joyce expressed deep gratitude to everyone who supported her throughout her journey and concluded her message with heartfelt words to her husband: “Until we meet again, my love.”
She also extended sincere thanks to her extraordinary care team at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Milford Campus, for their years of compassionate support—especially Dr. Humberto Rossi, Betsy Ryer, Janine Griffin, RN, and Jennifer Halter, RN.
A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held on Friday, April 24 from 4:00–7:00 PM at the Ginley Crowley Funeral Home, 3 Barber Street, Medway. Donations in Joyce’s memory may be made to: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in 90 Prospect Street, Milford, MA 01757.
