The Friends of the Library in Troy lost a good friend with the passing of Joyce Holcomb in November 2024.

She would stop by the Book Store every morning to say “hi” and catch up and buy a book.

“Often, Joyce would bring our volunteers flowers, treats or just something she saw at the store, just to say she appreciated everything we did,” said Bonnie Saunders, president of the Friends of the Library.  “She frequently brought goodies to other groups including the Troy Police Department.

Joyce Cooper, treasurer of the group, said a lot of the books Miss Joyce bought from the Book Store were given to college students and people that she knew at church. She was a “sweet and generous lady.”

Recently a donation in Joyce’s name was given to Friends of the Library.

“In addition to her love of reading, Miss Joyce loved children Saunders said.

“She always made sure children visiting the library got one of our pencils and she would ask them if they loved to read.”

To honor the memory of “Miss Joyce,” Friends of the Library purchased 100 copies of Laura Joffe Numeroff’s book, “If You Gave a Mouse a Cookie.” Each book will have a bookplate inscribed with the words: This book is given to you in memory of Joyce Holcomb because Joyce loved children and she loved books.

These books will be given to the first 100 children who visit the “Friends of the Library Book Store.” No purchase is necessary.

“Please stop by with you children and help us honor Joyce’s memory,” said Iris Byrd, Book Store manager.