Joyce Masessa

Joyce R. Masessa, 92, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, at Blue Ridge Assisted Living in Blue Ridge, Georgia. She is now reunited with her beloved husband, Edward A. Masessa, who preceded her in death three and a half years ago.

Joyce was born in Akron, Ohio, to Robert Bruce Reid and Lucile Pearson Reid. She is also preceded in death by her brother Robert Bruce Reid Jr.

She is survived by her three devoted children—Gary Lancaster (Bridget), Scott Lancaster, Lauren Lancaster Procko (Steve Procko),—along with eight grandchildren: Shannon (Josh) Reid Howard, Danielle (Tim) Barber, Greg (Yolanda) Lancaster, Monica (Michael) Kingdon, Tess (Adrian) Lancaster, Melissa (Chris) Delahoz, Troy Lancaster and Brianna Lancaster along with seven great-grandchildren: Elena and Ruby Howard, Dylan and Brendan Barber, Darius Lancaster, Colter and Cory Kingdon, all of whom brought her great pride and joy.

Joyce spent most of her life in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, before relocating to Blue Ridge,GA in 2017. She was a member of the Christian Church of Wilkinsburg for over 50 years, where she served as teacher, deacon, elder, Christian Women’s Fellowship secretary and president, New to You Shop worker, member of Revitalization and Reconciliation Teams.

Joyce worked as an office manager for Paul Shaffer CPA and Associates in Pittsburgh for over 25 years.

While raising her three children, she volunteered as a Cub Scout and Girl Scout leader. She embraced the richness of a long and full life, filled with the joys of her faith, family, friendships, swimming, traveling and life long learning.

A profound lover of books, Joyce was known for her curiosity, her warm spirit, and her dedication to staying connected with friends—often through her trusty computer. She collected quotes with her favorite one from Randy Pausch’s book, “ Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” She lived each day with enthusiasm and grace.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations to the Christian Church of Wilkinsburg, 748 Wallace Avenue, Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, 15221

A small celebration of life was held at the Blue Ridge Assisted Living August 5, 2025. Future arrangements will be held by the family with a homecoming celebration in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Joyce Reid Masessa. Send condolences and sign the guest register at www.cochranmcdaniel.com.