Joyce A. (Lisay) Terris, age 71, a longtime Tewksbury resident, passed away peacefully at home, her favorite place to be, in the care of her family and hospice on Sunday, October 26, 2025.
She was the beloved wife of George R. “Tucker” Terris, who passed away on August 14, 2022.
Born in Lowell on January 31, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Edward J. Lisay and the late Cecile A. (Masse) Lisay.
Joyce attended St. Michael´s School and is a graduate of Lowell High School in 1971 where she was a member of the Girl Officers.
Joyce was married in 1974 and prior to having children she worked at Aetna Insurance. She later worked at Saints Medical Center. However, her most important job was that of mother and grandmother. Joyce first “retired” when she became a mother in 1977. She wanted nothing more than to be a full time stay at home mother to her children. Her second “retirement” came in 2005 when her first grandchild was born. Joyce again gladly took on the role of stay-at-home Nana. Her grandchildren had the privilege of being cared for by her every day.
Joyce valued her family above everything and always made sure to create special family traditions that will always be cherished. Christmas Eve was her favorite day of the year and one that she made magical for everyone.
Joyce is survived by her daughter Shelley A. Wrobel and her partner Tony DeGrechie, daughter Christine M. Kydd and her husband John Kydd and her grandchildren ¨The Spectacular Six¨ Brooklynn and Maddie DeGrechie, Maci Wrobel, Johnny, Robbie and Evie Kydd. She was predeceased by her beloved son, Robert G. “Robbie” Terris. She was the sister of Linda Whitney, Sandra Gervais, Steven Lisay and the late Edward J. “Teddy” Lisay, Jr. Joyce leaves many nieces, nephews and extended family members.
At her request there are no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend her Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11:30 am on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at St. William´s Church, 1351 Main Street, Route 38, Tewksbury. Interment will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, 90 River Road, Tewksbury.