Kerry Festus Joyce

PORTLAND – Kerry Festus Joyce, born Dec. 28, 1970, passed away on Aug. 15, 2022 at his family home in Portland, surrounded by his five siblings. He was the youngest of six children born to Thomas M. Joyce and Jacqueline L. (Dodge) Joyce.

Kerry grew up on Rosemont Avenue and attended Portland schools. He had his first medical setback, a brain tumor, at the age of 15, which he overcame to graduate from Deering High School in 1989. He then attended SMVTI, earning a degree in Culinary Arts. Kerry then put his degree to work in the food industry at Full Belly Deli, Foodees, Friendly’s, and Seventy-Five State Street, until further health issues prevented him from continuing on that path. However, he could still be seen in his own kitchen, creating his masterpieces, which always included chocolate.

Despite his lifelong challenges, Kerry lived life to the fullest. He was the first to make anyone laugh, and had the most infectious smirk, twinkle in his eye, and sense of humor. Like his dad, Kerry had the gift of gab and once anyone met him, they never forgot him! He loved collecting baseball cards, participating in card shows and attending wrestling matches with his friends. Kerry was a regular fixture at Scarborough Downs. There was no bigger fan of the Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots. His love of sports was influenced by his two older brothers. His own participation in sports began in Little League, where he made lifelong friends.

Kerry enjoyed being around his family and friends. His niece and nephews looked up to him, admiring his strength, perseverance, and humorous life lessons. His fondest memories in life included his time with friends at DHS Class of ’89 reunions.

Kerry was predeceased by his parents.

He is survived by sister, Karen A. Joyce of Portland, brother, Kevin Joyce and wife Patti of Standish, sister, Kristina (Joyce) Smith and husband, Ben of Portland, sister, Kendra (Joyce) Grover and husband, Bill of Westbrook, brother, Ken Joyce and wife, Janet of Portland. He is also survived by his nephews Kyle Joyce and wife, Emma of Gorham, Brendon Joyce and wife, Johna of Gorham, Hunter Grover of Westbrook, Tommy Joyce of Portland, and niece, Jill Joyce of Portland; and two aunts, an uncle; and many cousins on the Joyce side of the family.

The family wishes to thank the many providers who have cared for Kerry throughout the past 36 years, which includes Dr. William D’Angelo, Dr. Bennett Stein, and Dr. Sarah Dodwell, his in-home caregivers, and the team from Beacon Hospice that provided support during his final days.

Visiting hours celebrating Kerry’s life will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 24, at the Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. Prayers will be recited at the chapel at 10:15 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 25, followed by an 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Pius X Church, 492 Ocean Ave., Portland. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, South Portland. To view Kerry’s obituary page, or to share an online condolence, please visit http://www.ConroyTullyWalker.com

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to the

Deering High School

Class of 1989

in care of Fran Aceto,

54 Hillis St.,

Portland, ME 04103