In Memory

Joyce Barnes (Robinson) - Class Of 1954

Joyce Barnes Robinson was born in Los Angeles on December 6, 1935 to Stanley and Anne Barnes. Joyce was the youngest of three girls (Joyce, Judy (SPHS '53) and Janet (SPHS '48). She attended Sacred Heart High School in Los Angeles and graduated South Pasadena High School in 1954. In junior high school and high school she met many of her cherished lifelong friends. In 8th grade she also met her one true love, David T Robinson.

One of the many funny and clever stories Joyce shared was when her family moved to Washington DC because her father was being sworn in as Assistant Attorney General under Dwight Eisenhower. Joyce was devastated to be away from the love of her life, Dave. Always the one to have fun and be silly or rebellious, Joyce thought a good way to get revenge on her parents for moving her so far from Dave was to dye her beautiful long hair bright pink in hopes that she would not have to attend the celebratory dinner at the White House. Her mother, a fair but firm woman, would have none of this and instead she made Joyce go and sit right next to the President and the First Lady. As the curious President looked on with astonishment and sheer amusement, the two hit it off and it turned out to be a fun filled evening. The President pulled the young Joyce aside after dinner and whispered in her ear, 'You have guts kiddo; I like that! Don't ever change that about yourself, stay creative, sweet, and courageous!' These words and that lesson stayed with Joyce throughout her life. She managed both ups and downs in her life with zest, creativity and kindness to a degree the world will not likely see for a very long time. A short while after the 'dinner incident' in Washington, DC, Joyce's parents sent her away to Stephens College in Missouri, a girls' finishing school, to sort out this rebellious young whipper snapper. While at college, she earned a Russian literature degree coupled with many fine art classes which began her lifelong love of books, music, and especially art. 

Joyce was an exceptionally creative artist. She was in charge of the art displays and props at many social functions in her early years. She would create fun, elaborate decorations at the beloved Junior League Follies party every year. She loved being a part of the Junior League and enjoyed giving back, which was her hallmark. Joyce was an accomplished visual artist and painter and also integrated art into her teaching career.

The family eventually moved back to San Marino and Joyce reconnected with her early love, Dave, whom she married in 1954. The couple tried unsuccessfully for nine years to have a child. Finally their only child, David 'Chip' Robinson, Jr was born in 1969. Joyce and Dave moved to Newport Beach in 1974 to get out of the smog and enjoy the clean, healthy beach air.  Joyce loved to teach more to teach more than anything. She was fondly known for her creativity and patience. She taught preschool for 23 years in Corona del Mar and was always so grateful for the opportunity to share her art and love for learning with her students. She believed early childhood education that was filled with structure yet also fun, creative with whimsical flair was the foundation for a positive perspective regarding school and life. She had an endless supply of kindness and positivity that was truly unmatched. She adored animals and was forever involved with animal causes. She adopted and cherished a pair of twin cats she appropriately named 'Judy and Joycie'. She embraced opportunities volunteering and helping others any way she could. Random acts of kindness were constantly on Joyce's mind, and there are a multitude of people who were touched by her thoughtfulness and generosity. Joyce loved her friends and family very much. Friends would seek her out for advice and encouragement. Consistently thoughtful to share her ideas, only when asked, Joyce was a great listener and made one feel heard, cared for and important. She was always there for anyone who needed her help and/or support, yet never asked for anything in return; she was the kindest soul.

Joyce passed away February 11, 2020 at her home in Newport Beach. The world lost a bright light that day. She had been courageously battling breast cancer in an eight year fight. Joyce fought long and hard against cancer yet always remained positive, funny and fearless to the end. We will miss Joyce's sweet nature, laughter and thoughtfulness. Let all who knew her honor her life by being kind, forgiving, and full of grace to all.

The Orange County Register, February 29, 2020