Joyce D. (Merrill) Lonati

91, of Narragansett, Rhode Island died peacefully at home on 5/25/25, surrounded by her beloved family. She was the adored wife of the late John Lonati Jr., her high school sweetheart and husband of 58 years.

Born in Teaneck, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Ambrose Kingsland and Joyce Isabel (Baker) Merrill. Joyce received a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Vermont.

Joyce and John spent every February for over 30 years in their home away from home, Aruba. Many friendships were formed there, along with cherished memories made with family members and beach buddies. Travel was a passion for the couple and they enjoyed trips all over the globe, especially Lake Como, Italy (where John's family originated). However, they were always happy to return to home, ready to share pictures and stories with their cherished family. In 1996, they moved to their dream home on the water in Narragansett, where they enjoyed incredible sunsets, wine on the deck, kayak trips up Narrow River, and many sun-filled days with family and friends.

Joyce played tennis and golf, and was thrilled to have made a hole-in-one. She also enjoyed collecting seashells and sea glass, playing bridge, and numerous "successful" trips to Foxwoods Casino. However, she was most excited about being a loving grandmother who always cherished spending time with her beautiful grandchildren.

Joyce was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children, Karen Lonati, Jill (Sandy) Curtis, Jeanne Lonati, and Stephen (Laura) Lonati. Joyce was preceded in death by her son John (Marianne). Grandchildren are Alycia, Brian (Jillian), Alexandra (Andrew), Michaela, Danielle, Stephen (Hannah), Taylor and Nicholas. Great grandchildren are Nolan and Lucie.

Per her request, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Cancer Society.