Joyce D. Gatto, a beloved pillar of the Lathrop community, passed away peacefully in Manteca on June 28, 2023. Born on April 10, 1933, in Oklahoma, Joyce brought her vibrant spirit and selfless dedication to California, where she spent her life tirelessly serving her community.
Joyce was a devoted wife to Bennie, her husband of 70 years. The couple married in the tropical paradise of Hawaii and later settled in Lathrop, where they raised their loving family. Joyce is survived by her daughter, Karen (David) Khinoo of Turlock, and her son, Jim (Sandy) Gatto of Visalia. She was a cherished grandmother to Clint (Rochelle) Faria, Paul Faria, Jimmy (Kacy) Gatto, and Vanessa (Shane) Williams. Joyce's joy in life was magnified by her great-grandchildren Jade Cancino, Ava Faria, Beni Faria, Jace Williams, Rozlyn Williams, Eve Gatto, Elle Gatto, and Parker Bailey. She was also blessed to meet her great-great- granddaughter, Monroe. Joyce was preceded in death by her siblings, Jack Brumley, Woodrow Brumley, Esther Hinds, Juanita Rea, Evelyn Noack, Ruby Jane Claveran, Carm Elliott, Mary Jo Mathews, and Pauline Okerson.
Joyce was a woman of many talents with a heart full of generosity. Her contributions to Lathrop are unparalleled. She established the Lathrop Mayor's Art Show and a teen art show, fostering creativity within the community. In 2005, Joyce was honored with the naming of the "Joyce Gatto Art Gallery," located in the City Hall building in Lathrop. Joyce also created the Living Treasures Award, recognizing the invaluable contributions of seniors in Lathrop. Her dedication to service was acknowledged when she was appointed the Aging Commissioner for San Joaquin County and was later inducted into the Manteca Hall of Fame. Recently, in honor of Joyce and Bennie's service, the city of Lathrop named their walking trail after them, a fitting tribute to a couple who walked side by side through life, always striving to make their community a better place.
Joyce had a zest for life that was evident in her many interests. She loved painting, a passion that allowed her to express her creativity and share her perspective with the world. She also enjoyed traveling to their cabin in Pioneer and visiting Kings Beach. Still, Joyce's favorite pastime was spending time with her family. She cherished every moment with them, and they were the inspiration behind her many community efforts.
Joyce was a selfless, creative, and loving woman. Her selflessness was evident in her unwavering dedication to her community and family. Her creativity shone through in her art and the innovative community programs she established. Her loving nature was felt by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. Despite her many achievements, Joyce remained humble and focused on serving others.
Joyce D. Gatto's legacy of love, service, and creativity will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in peace, knowing that she made a profound impact on her community and left a lasting impression on the hearts of her loved ones.
P.L. Fry & Son Funeral is honored to serve the Gatto family. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at 10 a.m. at P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home with a burial following at East Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society in Joyce's honor. An online guestbook is available for condolences at www.plfryandson.com
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Wednesday, July 5, 2023
