Joyce "Pat" Malone

Joyce "Pat" Malone, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026. Born on September 28, 1956, Joyce’s life journey was marked by devotion to her family and a passion for the Detroit Tigers, a team she loved deeply and whose spirit she carried into every gathering.

Joyce was a remarkable woman who balanced many roles with grace and dedication. A straight-A student in her youth, her pursuit of excellence was evident throughout all aspects of her life. She had an extraordinary talent for crafting, homemade dolls, and sewing, often found joyfully working in her sewing room. Notably, during a challenging time when the world was gripped by a pandemic, Joyce’s compassionate spirit shined brightly as she made and delivered homemade masks to those in need, a testament to her readiness to help others even when faced with personal health challenges.

Her love for life extended to the simple pleasures she adored—particularly her affection for dogs and her enjoyment of tubing down the river, moments of joyful escape she treasured deeply. Joyce’s working life was equally inspiring; beginning as a waitress at the tender age of 14, she devoted decades to her career, concluding it with pride in her 60s at Hockey Town, where her welcoming smile and caring nature touched all who met her.

Those who knew Joyce understood that her goodbye was never final. "It was never 'goodbye,' it was always 'see you later,'" she would say with a gentle smile, sealing her words of affection with her cherished phrase, "Love you to the moon and back." This enduring love was the cornerstone of her relationships and the thread that bound her blended family together.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Timothy Malone; her daughter and "Angel Baby," Leona (Douglass) Pewitt; and her adored one and only grandson, Matthew Mychal Pewitt, the light of her life. Her close-knit family also includes her siblings John "Rick" (Nicole) Utykanski, Phil (Pamela) Utykanski, James (Deborah) Lusk, Michael (Kathy) Lusk, Shannon (Michael) Utnage, Corey Lusk, and Ellen (Marty) Premtaj. She embraced her blended family wholeheartedly, sharing her love with her step-son, Jason Neu, and remaining cherished by her step-mother, Myrna Utykanski. Many nieces and nephews also carry forward her spirit and warmth within their hearts.

Joyce was preceded in death by Leona's father, Brian Keith Aniol; her second husband, Ronald Neu; her sister, Theresa (John) Pisarki; and her parents, John and Joyce Utykanski, whose memories she held dear.

A memorial gathering to honor Joyce’s life will be held on April 24, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Allen Park Chapel - Martenson Family of Funeral Homes, located at 10915 Allen Rd, Allen Park, MI 48101. This will be a time to celebrate a life that illuminated so many days and brought comfort, laughter, and love to countless souls.

Joyce "Pat" Malone’s story is one of resilience, generosity, and heartfelt connection. Her hands crafted more than just dolls and masks; they shaped a beautiful family and a legacy that will live in the hearts she touched. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love, gratitude, and admiration by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Until we meet again, Joyce, we hold your words close: "Love you to the moon and back."

Those who knew and loved Joyce are encouraged to wear Detroit Tigers apparel or watch the game in her honor, celebrating a bond that always brought her joy and connection.