Joyce Ann Lile, 83, of Hamlet, passed away Thursday afternoon, May 14, 2026, peacefully surrounded by her family.
She was Joyce to many, grandma to more, and Mrs. Lile, the lunch lady, to even more.
Joyce was born on August 7, 1942, to Carl and Teresa Freese. In May 1957, she welcomed the man who would become her dad, Roscoe Hensell, into her life. Her youth provided many lifelong friendships with Jeri and Betty, and together the “Cable Street Catters” created many stories of fun and a little bit of trouble-making.
Her marriage to Bill Lile blessed her with 4 children: Shawn (YoungXian) of Keego Harbor, MI, Craig (Ruth) of Walkerton, Lisa Santana (Dave) of La Porte, and Billy (Toshie) of Wixom, MI. She also served as a mother figure to special nieces, Patti Young (Bob) of LaCrosse, Connie of La Porte, and Steve of Hanna, all of whom survive. Their home was frequently the gathering place for friends of all ages.
In 1982, Joyce started her well-known role as beloved lunch lady at Kingsford Heights Elementary. Her time there allowed her to take care of countless children, providing so much more than just meals to fill their bellies. She truly enjoyed spending her summers making sure the kids of Kingsford Heights had full stomachs with the breakfast and lunch program. She continued at KHES for 34 years before retiring.
Joyce genuinely loved spending time with her family and friends in any capacity, from Friday High X nights to grandkids’ sporting events to the 4H fair to family parties. She had an open-door policy for her home and always had a pot of coffee on.
Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved parents, her brother, Dennis, and her sister, Marlene.
She is survived by her children, 10 grandbabies, 5 bonus grandbabies, and 15 great-grandbabies, as well as many special friends, nieces, and nephews.
She was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by those who loved her. Joyce requested to have no services, but the family suggested a coffee and a piece of chocolate in her honor.
Cremation will take place with Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte.
Those wishing to light a virtual candle, share a memory, or leave a message of comfort for the family are invited to visit esslingfuneralhome.com
