Joyce Laraine Helm-Gray, 57, passed away Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at NorthCare Hospice House. A celebration of her life will be held on Wednesday, February 6 ^th , at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home, 2117 Independence Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64124. Guests are welcome to join in remembering and honoring Joyce from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Joyce was born September 3, 1961, in North Kansas City, MO, to JB and Betty Helm. She was preceded in death by her sister, Linda Burdick. Joyce is survived by her husband, Scott Gray; daughter and son-in-law, Ryley and Clark Carlton; son, Keenan; parents, JB and Betty Helm; brother and sister-in-law, Landon and Julie Helm; and brother-in-law, Jerry Burdick.

A special thank you to NorthCare Hospice House for their loving care, compassion and support.

Joyce graduated from North Kansas City High School. From there she studied at both Missouri Western State University and UMKC. She graduated from MWSU with a bachelor's degree in Business with a minor in Marketing. Joyce held a variety of management positions including working for The Parasides Shops, Walmart, and Driveline Retail Services. However, her favorite role was that of being a wife and mother which meant everything to her. She felt her greatest accomplishment over the years was seeing her children transform themselves into compassionate, responsible young adults.

Joyce had a true passion for sports with her favorites being softball and volleyball. Joyce coached High School Volleyball at St. Pius X and Winnetonka High Schools. She was founder of the Eclipse Volleyball Club where she mentored and coached girls ages 8 to 18 years. Her philosophy was to place great emphasis on fun and fellowship above all else.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Special Olympics . Joyce was an avid volunteer for their organization and had a special place in her heart for all those involved.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com