Joyce Smoot Magrogan

Joyce Magrogan, 71, of Owings, MD, passed away on June 20 after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Joyce was born September 23rd, 1952 to Mary and Bob Smoot in Falls Church, VA, also residing in Bladensburg, MD and finally settling in Mt. Airy, MD. 

Although Kenny (brother) and Joyce were separated by 9 years, he recounts that she was always there to support him growing up. That role reversed later in life, and Kenny always made himself available to Joyce and her family.

After graduating Bladensburg High School in 1970, Joyce entered the workforce. Joyce started working for Washington Gas Light Company where she led a career as a Customer Service Representative until 2000.

Washington Gas Light is where she met Larry (dec.), and after a short courtship began their 29 year marriage. They were blessed with one child, Kathleen.

In her younger years, Joyce enjoyed playing softball with the “Ignitors” women’s softball club, trips to Myrtle Beach and hosting summer gatherings at their home in Owings, MD. She also enjoyed accompanying Larry to Dinner/Dances and getting dressed for the occasion. She raised Kathleen into a strong, loving, educated woman. As she aged, eating good food and re-telling old family stories at holiday gatherings were some of her favorite activities.

In 2012, Kathleen made Joyce and Larry grandparents with the birth of her son Connor. Joyce enjoyed it when the grandchildren would come to visit her with pizza or donuts. In 2016, Joyce became grandmother to Lorelei, who brought her many smiles and snuggles, and was never shy to talk to Grandma even as words became more difficult for Grandma to find.

Joyce fought a hard fight with Multiple Sclerosis but did so with vigor. Her quick wit and humor will be missed by all, but her family takes solace in her passing and the comfort she can now experience again.

Joyce was predeceased by her parents Mary and Bob as well as her husband Larry. She is survived by her brother Kenny and Rita (sister-in-law) of Little Orleans, MD and daughter Kathleen and Robert (son-in-law) as well as her step-son Larry P Magrogan and her two grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at nationalmssociety.org.