Joyce Wakatani

Joyce Michiko Wakatani, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on October 10, 2024, at the age of 64. Born on October 6, 1960, in Los Angeles, California, Joyce was the daughter of Tadashi and Shizuko Sakuda and the younger sister of Naomi Uraguchi.

Joyce’s life was marked by a deep love for family and a zest for life. She met her husband, Derek Wakatani, through their shared love of basketball, and they were married soon after. Together, they created a home filled with laughter, love, and travel. Joyce had a passion for exploring new places, and she and Derek often visited Las Vegas, where they enjoyed gambling, as well as the beaches of Hawaii. They also shared a love for bowling, often spending weekends together at the lanes, competing and enjoying each other’s company.

Professionally, Joyce was a dedicated and skilled Senior Financial Analyst. However, her greatest joy came from being a loving and caring mother to her daughter, Ashlie, a proud grandmother to her cherished granddaughter, Isabella, and a devoted dog mom to her beloved pets—Teddy, Daisy, Kinako, and Keiki. Joyce also had a true passion for gardening, finding joy in growing fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, which she often used in her cooking for family and friends. She was also deeply involved in her church and community, often cooking meals for family gatherings and church events, where she shared her culinary talents and her kind heart.

A service to celebrate Joyce's life will be held at Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 11:30 AM.

Joyce’s warmth, generosity, and loving spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her.