Frank Joyce

Francis Frank Walden Joyce

A funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m., Today, October 10, 2008 at the Ballard Chapel. Fr. Paul Juniet, O.F.M. of St. Peters Catholic Church will officiate.

Frank Joyce grew up in Alabama and Roswell, NM. He moved to Albuquerque in the early 1950's with his wife, Frances D. Joyce of Ralls, Texas. They raised their two sons, Ronnie and Kelley at their Northeast Heights house since 1959. He graduated from Roswell High School in Roswell, NM in 1941. After participating in the 1941 North-South All Star game, he continued his playing career in football at the University of Alabama. Then he went on to serve his country as a corporal in the United States Army. He received the Bronze star for his dedicated service.

As a young disc jockey, he was the first reporter on the scene at a ranch in Roswell, NM to cover the national recognized UFO incident. He was an involved in one of the most important events in New Mexico history. Over the years, he was interviewed and depicted in numerous movies and documentaries. Because of his honesty and integrity, he became a valuable voice in explaining this significant event. He appeared on Nightline with Ted Koppel as well as many other TV shows.

He was an avid sports fan and was a sports commentator for the University of New Mexico. In fact, he broadcasted the first lobo games played at the nationally known Pit. In this enviable position, he was able to meet and interview the likes of John Wooden and Muhammad Ali. In addition, he followed his radio career as a reporter for KOB TV. For many years, many around the state would check in weekly to hear, This is Frank Joyce with the outdoor report. He traveled all over the state to bring everyone around the state the hunting, fishing, and skiing reports. He loved the outdoors in New Mexico and always enjoyed sharing these experiences with his loyal following.

His love of the outdoors was shared with his family. He often took his wife and kids as well as his family to the Gila or Pecos wilderness.

He was preceded in death by Father, Mother-Ruth Joyce, Wife-Frances D. Joyce, and Aunt Kate Willingham.

He is survived by sons: James Kelley Joyce and Ronnie J. Joyce, Grandsons-Brian and wife-Tina, Kyle and wife-Amber, and Chad Joyce and fianc-Jordan Luckenbill. Great grandchildren-Dalton 9yrs and Regan Kate Joyce 5yrs. Daughter in law-Brenda K. Joyce.

Visitation

Ballard Funeral Home
910 S. Main
Roswell, NM  88203
Thursday, October 9, 2008
12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Service

Funeral Service

Ballard Funeral Chapel
910 S. Main St.
Roswell, NM  88203
Friday, October 10, 2008
2:00 p.m.

Cemetery

South Park Cemetery
3101 S. Main St.
Roswell, NM  88203