Joyce Millstein

It was said “Once you have won a place in Joyce’s heart, you can be certain of her total support.” Joyce Ellen Millstein, age 89, passed away peacefully after a full life of love, talent, and adventure. Born in Upper Manhattan and raised in Miami Beach, Joyce was an avid beach, theater, travel, and restaurant enthusiast. She was adored by her husband of 68 years, Rabbi Ronald Millstein. Together, they valued home, family, and career. Joyce was mom and grandma extraordinaire to her three children, their spouses, and her six grandchildren: Pam Auerbach and Dave, Rabbi Jordan Millstein and Rabbi Paula Feldstein, Dr. Beth Wish and Dr. Ron, Natanya (Michael) and Ariana (Sam) Auerbach, Eve and Sarah Millstein, and Moriya and Auriel Wish. Joyce is remembered by the extended family as the youthful spirited matriarch who hosted festive gatherings regaled by her chicken/matzah ball soup, and made it all look easy.

In addition to being a staunch family nurturer, Joyce was an ambitious career woman. She earned two Masters degrees and a Professional Diploma in Education, Administration, and School Psychology. She moved from school teaching to assistant principal positions, and ultimately became the Assistant Director at the Nassau Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). At that time, it was the highest position attained by a woman in the agency. While at BOCES, Joyce particularly cherished running the Cultural Arts Center and founding the TAP program, through which pregnant teens could continue to study and graduate high school while giving birth to their children. Her retirement tribute captured her unique combination of tenacity and talent perfectly when it noted that everyone working with Joyce learned to “marvel at her ability to move immovable objects.”

Zecher Tzadik Livrachah – May Joyce Millstein’s life always be remembered as a blessing.