Joyce Selfman, age 79, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 17, 2025, at the Danbury Senior Living Facility.
She was born on October 12, 1946, in Mansfield, Ohio, the daughter of Dr. Albert and Mary (Sherky) Selfman. Joyce was a proud graduate of Mansfield Senior High School, where she was honored as the Salutatorian of the Class of 1964. She went on to earn her undergraduate degree in Social Work from the Flora Stone Mather College for Women in Cleveland and later achieved her Master of Social Work from Boston University—a field to which she dedicated her life with compassion and conviction.
Joyce was a longtime member of B’nai Jacob Church in Mansfield, where she nurtured her spiritual life and community connections. She devoted her professional career to serving children and families, beginning her work with Children Services in Richland County before retiring from Franklin County. Her commitment to helping others left a lasting impact on the countless lives she touched.
Joyce’s passions extended far beyond her career. She was a tremendous animal lover with a gentle heart for all creatures. Embracing the spirit of adventure that defined her life, she enjoyed traveling the world whenever she could. She even attended Woodstock. Joyce had an eye for a good bargain, a love for the arts, and a keen interest in photography—capturing the beauty she saw in the everyday moments around her.
Joyce will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her generosity, and her unwavering love for friends, and the world she explored so fully.
She is survived by her niece Naomi Selfman of California, a sister-in-law and numerous cousins in California and Canada.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Dr. David Selfman and her niece, Linette.
There will be a graveside service on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 beginning at 11 a.m. in B’nai Jaco Cemetery in Ontario, Ohio. The Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home of Mount Vernon is honored to serve the family of Joyce Selfman.
Memorial contributions in her name may be made to the Knox County Animal Shelter or your local humane society.
To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, visit www.snyderfunerealhomes.com
Funeral Home: Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com