Joyce E. Sears

Rumford – Joyce E. (Cunha) Sears, 78, passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2026. Born in Pawtucket, she was a daughter of the late John C. and Rita E. (Burns) Cunha.

Joyce worked for many years as a chef and baker at the former Ro-Jack’s Grocery store until its closing several years ago. She also served for many years as chairman of the events and entertainment committee at Rumford Towers, where Joyce made her home.

Above all, she was devoted to her family and enjoyed cooking and entertaining family and friends alike. Joyce will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends for her fun-loving ways and memorable sense of humor.

Joyce leaves three sons, Joseph M. Sears of Johnston, John W. Sears and his wife, Sheryl, of Attleboro, and Jeff L. Sears of Surprise, Arizona; three grandchildren, Dylan Sears and his wife, Zuleily, Audrey Sears and Skye Sears; a sister, Georgianna Sweeney of Rumford, and many nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Phyllis Eklind and Leighton Cunha.

VISITATION will be held on Thursday, March 19th from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. in St. Margaret Church, 1098 Pawtucket Ave., Rumford. Interment will follow at Mount Saint Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 would be appreciated. www.TrippFuneralHome.com