Joyce Marie Plante, 79, died Friday, March 20, 2026 at HaysMed.

She was born Dec. 29, 1946 to Paul and Opal (Norris) Smith. 

She graduated from Liberal High School in 1964.

She married Norbert Plante Feb/ 10, 1968 in Liberal. He survives.

The couple moved to Hays in 1985 and were members of St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church. 

She was a school bus driver for USD 489 for 12 years, worked as a hairdresser, and operated a daycare from her home. 

She enjoyed sewing, quilting, and ceramics, was a Girl Scout leader and active in 4-H, and dearly loved her grandchildren.

Survivors also include her son, Brian Plante and wife, Naomi, Ceresco, Neb.; daughter, Lori Plante, Hays; and six grandchildren: Lindsee Plante, Josh Plante and wife, Alicia, Logan Plante, Beth Plante, John Plante, and Lexi Wittman.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

• Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2026 at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery in WaKeeney with Fr. Damian Richards presiding. Services are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.

Memorials are suggested to HaysMed Hospice or to St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church. 

Condolences may be left at www.haysmemorial.com.