05/28/2026
Marion Joyce Lagatore
It is with profound sadness that we announce that Joyce “Nana” Lagatore, 95 of Columbia, SC, peacefully passed away in the arms of her beloved granddaughter, in the late hours on May 26th, 2026, surrounded by love and comfort.
Born on March 15th, 1931, in Hammonton, New Jersey, Joyce was the beloved daughter of Chester Ford Sr. and Vernila Bassett. She spent her early years in New Jersey before making South Carolina her home. She continued to build a life centered around family, friendship, hard work, and creating lasting memories.
Joyce dedicated many years of her life to serving others through her work, including positions at Tapps Department Store, Something Special, and Columbia's Ballroom Company: of course. She believed in the value of hard work and took pride in everything she did. Whether you saw her warm smile or stern glare, her welcoming personality is what made a lasting impression on customers, coworkers, friends, and neighbors alike.
Beyond her professional life, Joyce had a passion for people and experiences. She loved Broadway, local theater, movies, dancing, shopping adventures, and flea market strolls. She enjoyed traveling, and her journey took her across the country, never meeting a stranger.
To her Family, Joyce was more than a Mother, Grandmother or Aunt. She was a teacher, confidant, shopping partner, driving instructor, and best friend. She spent countless hours sharing stories and life's lessons, hosting dinners, playing cards, and creating memories that will be cherished forever. Whether it was late-night chats, studio events, sharing secrets, and laughter, Joyce created a bond with her loved ones that could never be broken.
Joyce will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, sense of humor, unwavering devotion to family, and her ability to find joy in life's simple moments. Her legacy lives on through the traditions she created, the lessons she taught, and the love she shared.
In addition to her parents, Chester and Vernila Ford Sr., Joyce is preceded in death by her youngest son, Paul Lagatore; her husband, Tom Lagatore Sr.; Her brothers, Charles and Chester Ford; and her sister, Lucille Mason.
She is survived by her sons: Tom Lagatore Jr. (Cynthia) and Alan Lagatore (Mary). Her grandchildren: Matthew Lagatore (Katelyn), Alania Lagatore, Brian Walters (Salena), Olivia Osland (Andy), Lisa Branham (Joel). Great grandchildren: Raylee Branham, Samuel Branham, Oliver Lagatore, and great great grandson Kadyn Branham.
She is also survived by many friends and extended family, who are invited to a visitation on Thursday, June 4th, 2026, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Shives Funeral Home, located at 7600 Trenholm Rd, Columbia, SC 29223.
In the hope of sharing memories of Joyce, the family would like to invite you to honor her by reflecting on the ways she impacted each of us. A Celebration of Life will be hosted by Elite Ballroom Dance Academy, 103 Legion Plaza Rd, Columbia, SC 29210. Time and Date to be announced.
Though she may no longer be with us in person, Joyce's smile and spirit will continue to dance on in the hearts of all who've known her. She will be deeply missed, always remembered, and forever loved.
Although flowers are appreciated, we would like you to consider donating to a Memorial Dance Scholarship being created in memory of Joyce & Paul Lagatore and their passion for continuing the art of dance. Please check back soon for updated information on this Scholarship.
May her faith take her to that place of peace, where one day we hope to see her again-
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