Joyce Ann Hottenstein, 60, of Lancaster, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 30, 2013 at her home in Lancaster. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late Raymond "Jeep" Hottenstein and Betty Hottenstein.

Joyce was a graduate of St. Anthony's Grade School, a 1971 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School, and was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church.

Our sister was a U.S. Army Veteran with 11 years of service to her Country before being Honorably Discharged. She was fiercely, patriotic, courageously loyal and so proud of her service to the Country.

She was previously employed at Electron Energy Corp.

Joyce enjoyed gardening and was always sharing her fruits of her garden with others. We will miss her big smile and outstretched hand full of tomatoes or flowers whenever she visited. She was devoted to the care of animals as is witnessed by her many pleas to other Facebook postings about the care of animals. Her two rescued dogs Scooter and Gigi will be cared for by her dear friends.

The family would like to extend a thank you to the EMS workers, Lancaster Police, and Fire Departments for their compassion shown to our sister.

She was the sister of Raymond F. "Beep" Hottenstein, husband of Susan, of Ronks, Mark E. Hottenstein, husband of Kimbra, of Willow Street, a sister, Carol Kirsch, wife of John, two nephews, Rafe, Keri, three nieces, Kristen, Sara, and Katie. She is also survived by her "best friend" Clara Colon. We will be forever grateful for Clara's friendship to our sister for what was a lifetime of caring. Joyce was preceded in death by her older sister, Barbara Jean Hottenstein in 2006.

In Celebration of Joyce's Life, a Christian Prayer Service will be held on Friday, July 5, 2013 at 11AM at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory 414 E. King St. Lancaster, PA with Rev. Daniel Mitzel. Friends will be received from 10-11AM. Interment will be at St. Anthony's Catholic Cemetery on Monday, July 8 at 11AM with Military Honors. Memorial contributions in Joyce's memory may be made to the Humane League of Lancaster County 2195 Lincoln Hwy E., Lancaster, PA 17602.