December 30, 1934 – May 31, 2026
Joyce Annette Hook, 91, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, in Overland Park.
An Open House Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Overland Park, Kansas, for family and close friends. Guests are welcome to come and go throughout the afternoon as family and friends gather to share memories and celebrate Joyce’s life. Funeral services will be held at Fort Scott National Cemetery in Fort Scott, Kansas, at a later date.
Joyce was born on December 30, 1934, in Independence, Kansas, to James Harlan Wilkerson and Wilma (Billie) Alverda Wilkerson. After graduating from high school in Independence, Kansas, she married Wallace R. Hook on June 16, 1952.
Joyce began her career as a candy striper at the local hospital at the age of 15 and later worked as a nurse’s aide at hospitals in Freeport, Illinois, and Kansas City, Kansas.
After Wallace returned from serving in the Army in Germany during the Korean War, the couple farmed in western Kansas before relocating to Freeport, Illinois, to be closer to family. Throughout her life, Joyce worked in farming, factories, foster parenting, and health care. Most notably, she provided child care from 1960 to 2024, touching the lives of countless children and families over more than six decades. She became a beloved part of her community and was known for her caring heart, patience, and dedication to others.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Larry Wilkerson, and his wife, Linda Wilkerson; her son, Wallace David Hook; her daughter-in-law, Doana Hook; her grandsons, Pfc. Jason Chafin and Justin Stewart; and her husband, Wallace R. Hook.
She is survived by her children, Sharon (Vincent Feden) of Overland Park, Kansas; James Hook of Fontana, Kansas; Susan (James Stice) of Benson, Arizona; Janell Hook of Hays, Kansas; and Rebecca (Michael Stewart) of Overland Park, Kansas. She is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren; her brother, James (Janice) Wilkerson of Canon City, Colorado; two brothers-in-law; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Joyce had a deep love for bird watching and cherished her Christian faith. Her kindness, strength, and devotion to others will be remembered by all who knew her. She looked forward to going home to be with Jesus and is now at peace.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse. Donations may be made online at www.samaritanspurse.org, by phone at (828) 262-1980, or by mail to Samaritan’s Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.
