Joyce Helen Zulaica

Joyce Helen Zulaica
January 14, 1933 – April 10, 2021
Joyce Zulaica, resident of Brentwood (formerly of Pleasant Hill, CA), passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 10 after a sudden illness.
Joyce was born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, and went on to Nursing School at Mass General to receive her RN in Nursing.  She subsequently found her bright light in her life, Richard Zulaica, as she was living the single life in San Francisco in the 60's.   She and Rich raised their family in Pleasant Hill and were married 38 years before Rich's sudden death in 2003.
She is survived by her children, Jo Ann Zulaica (husband Paul) of Salt Lake City, Janet Orloff (husband Stephen) of Brentwood; and grandchildren Neena Orloff and Veronica Orloff of Brentwood, and Derrick Smith and Donovan Smith of Salt Lake City.
Joyce was known as independent, active, and self-reliant, and enjoyed traveling, especially with her kids and grandkids. She was a talented gardener and an avid reader of British mysteries.  One of her biggest interests was staying informed of current events and staying on top of the political scene. She always kept a warm and welcoming home whether it was her house of 50 years in Pleasant Hill, or her more recent home at Cortona Park in Brentwood.
Joyce is preceded in death by her husband of 38 years, Richard John Zulaica.
A private service was held.   Donations in lieu of flowers may be made in her honor to the ASPCA or any animal shelter, or Suncrest Hospice.

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