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June 12, 2015

Patricia Joy Porritt
Died June 10, 2015

TRAVERSE CITY — Patricia Joy Porritt of Traverse City, passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2015 at Munson Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. Her life was cut short when she suffered a heart attack at the age of 58.

Joy was born Oct. 1, 1956 at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak the daughter of George and Carolyn (Ames) LaCross.

On April 22, 1978 at St. Michael’s Church in Suttons Bay, she married John “Greg” Porritt, who survives.

In her work, Joy was one of the first caring contacts for people who benefited from the services of the Area Agency on Aging. Her patience, empathy and love were gifts she gave to everyone she knew. She approached life with an open mind and an ability to humorously bring out the best in any difficult situation.

Joy spent her last days as any other day, taking care of others and relishing in the delight of having her five-year-old granddaughter in town for a visit.

In addition to her husband of 37 years, Joy is survived by her children, John “Nathan” Porritt, Lindsey Matro, and Nicholas Porritt; granddaughter, Madison Matro; her parents George, and Carolyn; sister, Jody LaCross; and brother, Jeffrey LaCross.

Visitation will be held Saturday, June 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. with a wake service at 7 p.m. at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay.

The funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday, June 15 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Traverse City, with visitation held one hour prior.

Burial will follow the church luncheon at Suttons Bay Township Cemetery. Father Kenneth R. Stachnik will serve as celebrant.

Memorials may be directed to the Leelanau Conservancy, P.O. Box 1007, Leland, MI 49654.

Please share memories and condolences with Joy’s family below:

 

12 comments:

  1. Lou and Sue Fantini10:31 AM

    As members of the Board of Advisors, we have known Joy for many years. She was always a welcoming and familiar face when we came for meetings in Traverse City. If we had questions, Joy was our "go to" person. We enjoyed relaying family stories and she loved asking about our dog Bianca who she met four years ago. We were so pleased when Joy was promoted as it was something she truly earned and deserved. Through all of it Joy was the smiling and welcoming face of the Agency on Aging. We will truly miss her and wish all of your the best. You are in our prayers and hearts. Lou and Sue Fantini, Petoskey, Michigan

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  2. Debbie, Ken, Kari and Bryan Belanger10:34 AM

    So very saddened and sorry to hear of Joy's passing. She was such a kind and caring person, and it was such an honor to have known her over the years. She was a special friend to all who were lucky enough to have her in their lives, including our family. Our hearts and thoughts are with you all through this very difficult time, Debbie, Ken, Kari and Bryan Belanger

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  4. My darling, dear Joy. I'm going to miss my dear, dear friend! Her spirit lives on in the friendship she shared, that precious granddaughter, Madison, the wonderful lives she bore and nurtured into amazing adults - Nathan, Lindsay and Nick and in the selfless, unconditional love she modeled with her beloved husband, Greg. I pray her love and laughter will echo in your hearts and your happiest memories will bring you much comfort!

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  5. Jim Weigand3:38 PM

    Greg, my condolences to you and your family.

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  6. Anonymous6:36 PM

    Greg and family we are so sad to hear about Joy and to let you know we are thing about you and you are in our prayers.
    Mark and Ticia Schaub
    Hamilton, NJ

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  7. Anonymous7:37 AM

    Dear Porritt family; Joy was such a special friend, both at work and outside of work. I will miss our many conversations and laughter. She was a 2nd grandmother to my granddaughters and doted on them with such love. I will always remember her warm personality and playful spirit!!
    You all will be in my prayers and thoughts!

    Much Love,

    Mary Harwood

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  8. Anonymous10:59 AM

    Greg and family, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers, Robin C

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  9. Joy was always a light in my life! I delighted in our conversations, always thinking about what clever conversation we might have next. I looked forward to seeing her at AAANM. She was caring and compassionate. Joy always made me feel so warm and welcome. I will miss her so much! Prayers for Peace and Rest for the Family! We will always remember how much JOY she brought to our lives.

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  10. Julie McConaha1:24 PM

    Joy was as beacon of light I could see all they over here in Minnesota. Heaven got itself a new star. She will be missed!

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  11. Jeff and Nita Send1:47 PM

    Joy was such an example for all of us of how to live a life of love. I will never forget her and try to be like her. Our hearts ache for your tremendous loss. But her smile, heart and spirit will live forever in all of you. May God give you comfort & peace.

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  12. Joy will be greatly missed she was a wonderful advocate and helper at the AAANM. Gonna miss that smile of hers. May God bring the family and friends and the staff of AAANM comfort and peace.

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