Joyce Stroman Ely

Raleigh - Joyce Stroman Ely celebrated her 82nd birthday on July 26, 2014. After a brief illness, she died peacefully at her home on August 17, 2014. Originally from Elmhurst, Illinois, Joyce attended Purdue University, where she met her future husband, Dr. John F. Ely whom she married in 1953. Having majored in English at Purdue, Joyce enjoyed her work as a reporter and page editor for several newspapers in Illinois. In 1963, the family moved to Raleigh, N.C. where Dr. Ely became a civil engineering professor at North Carolina State University. After moving to Raleigh, Joyce became a full time homemaker and raised five children, while continuing to pursue her interests. She was very creative and enjoyed reading, working crosswords, playing bridge, gardening, playing tennis and golf, photography, graphic design, sewing and painting. She was a self-taught Dixieland jazz banjo player, playing many years with the Salty Dog Jazz Band of Raleigh. Preceding Joyce in death were her parents, Ervin C. and Ena B. Stroman; her brother and only sibling, Ervin C. Stroman, Jr.; her oldest daughter Terry J. Ely-Schonenberger; her golden retriever Ginger and collies Laddy and Lassie.Joyce is survived by her husband of 61 years, Dr. John F. Ely; daughter Echo E. Eldridge and spouse John of Colorado Springs, CO.; daughter Carole E. Acquesta and spouse Michael of Todd, N.C.; son John F. Ely, Jr. of St. Croix; son Carlton M. Ely and spouse Lisa of Raleigh, N.C. and five grandchildren. A public celebration of Joyces life will be held at the NCSU University Club at 4200 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, N.C. on Sunday, August 24, 2014 at 3:00 PM. Following the service, there will be a musical tribute and the family will receive friends at the University Club until 6 PM. Arrangements for cremation are being taken care of by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 831 Wake Forest Road, Raleigh. The family thanks the caregivers, doctors and nurses that provided her with compassionate and loving care. In her memory, donations may be made to the Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue or Transitions LifeCare of Raleigh.