Joyce Morrison, a member of the Hope College music faculty for 35 years until her retirement in 1997, passed away November 3, 1999 at her home in Aurora, Ill. after a short illness. She was born October 17, 1932 in Aurora, Ill.
A native of Aurora, Miss Morrison received her education at West Aurora High School and Augustana College, Rock Island, graduating in 1953. She was well-known as a classical singer throughout her life, receiving her Masters degree in vocal performance from American Conservatory of Music as an artist-pupil of the late Theodore Harrison.
She did doctoral work at the University of Indiana and Bowling Green University
where she studied with David Aiken, Eileen Farrett and Andreas Poulimenos.
She taught voice at Wheaton College for five years before becoming chair of the voice division at Hope College from 1962 to 1997.
She appeared with major symphony groups and colleges throughout the Midwest.
Her active performance schedule included the Calvin College Oratorio Society,
Ludington Musicale, Grand Haven Festival of the Arts, the Detroit Symphony
Orchestra in addition to many performances in the Holland and Grand Rapids area.
She was active in National Association of Teachers of Singing where many of her
students received high honors.
She originated, developed and directed "Portraits in Opera" at Hope in addition to master classes featuring renowned singers and founded the college's Alumni Concert Series.
She is survived by her aunts Ruth Morlock Milton of Aurora, Ill. and Dorcas Morlock of Montgomery, Ill. and several cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents Philip and Marvel (Morlock) Morrison; two aunts, Naomi Morlock Porter and Mildred Morlock Harrell; two uncles, Mark and Paul Morlock.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 14 at 3 p.m. from First Baptist Church in Aurora, Ill. where she was an active member. Rev. Timothy Baltz will officiate. There will be no visitation. Interment will be private in Lincoln Memorial Park in Aurora, Ill. Arrangements are being made by the Healy Chapel in Aurora, Ill.
Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, 15 Oak Ave., Aurora, IL 60506 or to the Hope College department of music.