Marilyn Joyce Nowak, a resident of Howell, passed away on Sunday, June 19, 2022, at the age of 98. She was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, on May 29, 1924, to Martin and Myrtle Hearl. Joyce was raised on a farm in Ypsilanti, and while in high school she accepted Christ as her savior. After graduation Joyce went to work in a defense plant called Willow Run and became an original “Rosie the Riveter” that summer. She then attended Malone College in Cleveland and graduated with a Bachelor of Theology degree. Joyce returned to Ypsilanti and worked for a family doctor, then moved to Detroit and worked in a hospital and for a dentist. She married Alexander E. Nowak in 1953 and moved to Battle Creek, Michigan, where she resumed work as a “Rosie” at a bomber plant. Shortly after, the family moved to Lincoln Park, Michigan, and raised two daughters. She attended First Baptist Church where she was active in Sunday School and missions programs. Joyce enjoyed buying and refurbishing antique furniture, and she caned chairs for family and friends. She was organized and efficient as a homemaker and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Joyce enjoyed music (Bluegrass and Classical), rug weaving, sewing, politics, candle-making, berry-picking, gardening, bird-watching, and she had many other varied interests. She had a passion for God’s work and was a generous contributor to many missionaries around the world. Joyce had a sharp mind and still retained the ability to recall events and family stories down to the smallest detail. Loving mother of Carol (Carl) Davis and Jane Parent. Family will receive friends on Saturday, June 25, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 Noon at Victory Baptist Church in Hartland, located at 3642 Washington Street, Hartland, Michigan 48353, pastor Ryan Guenther officiating. Interment will take place on Monday, June 27, 2022, at Alban Cemetery in Ypsilanti, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to Youth With a Mission YWAM TYLER PO Box 3000, Garden Valley, TX 75771-3000 (Designate gift for Dennis & Corinne Holt, Republic of Georgia) Please leave a condolence or memory at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com.