Brenda Joyce Martin

Brenda Joyce Martin, known as Joyce to her friends and family, passed away on April 23, 2024, at Rolling Hills Health and Rehab center in Topeka, Kansas.  

Joyce was born on September 27, 1940, in Higginsville, Missouri.  She was the eldest of three daughters born to Wilbur and Georgia “Dot” (Fizer) Hamer.  

She excelled academically, graduating as Valedictorian from Vinland Kansas High School.  She was a homemaker when her children were young, later working in their school as a food preparer in Eudora, Kansas. She worked as an office assistant at Kansas State University for a number of years before moving to Colorado, where she also worked for several employers before returning to Wamego to be closer to her children.  Her final position was at the Smoke Signal newspaper in Wamego, Kansas, as an office assistant.  

Joyce's legacy is one of love and faith.  She was an active member of the New Life Baptist Church in Wamego.  Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life's ups and downs with grace and resilience.  An artist at heart, Joyce possessed a remarkable talent for needlework of all types.  Her intricate creations were a source of joy for her and the recipients of her beautiful work.  Music was another of Joyce’s passions; she enjoyed playing the piano and singing.  She also found joy in gardening, cultivating a vibrant array of flowers.

Survivors include her two daughters, Karlene Teske (Terry) of Wamego, Kansas, and Tammy Kokenge (Jim) of Topeka, Kansas; two grandchildren, Rolland Varnadore of Wamego, Kansas, and Keegan Varnadore (Kara) of Clearwater, Kansas; two great-grandchildren, Landon and Breyleigh Varnadore; and two sisters, Vicki Hamer and Crystal Hamer of Colorado, who will miss her deeply.  

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents.  

Cremation arrangements are in the care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home.  No public services are planned.  Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) in Topeka, Kansas, and may be sent in the care of Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.