Funeral services for Joyce A. Schomp, 74, Chamberlain, SD will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 24, 2025 at the United Church of Christ in Chamberlain with burial in the Riverview Cemetery at Chamberlain.  Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday at the Hickey Funeral Chapel in Chamberlain.

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Joyce A. Schomp

August 25, 1950 – April 20, 2025

Joyce A. Schomp, age 74, of Chamberlain, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025. Born on August 25, 1950, in Martin, South Dakota, to Jack and Ramona Cook, Joyce lived a life filled with love, purpose, and a deep dedication to her family, her students, and her community.

Joyce grew up in Hay Springs, Nebraska, where she graduated high school in 1968. She earned her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Chadron State College in 1972. That same year, she married her childhood classmate and lifelong love, Steve Schomp, after his return from the Navy. Together, they raised three children—Judd, Thad, and Brooke—and built a life grounded in support, laughter, and love. Steve preceded her in death in January of this year.

Joyce began her teaching career in a one-room country school in Nebraska before dedicating over 35 years to Lower Brule Elementary School. She wasn't just a teacher—she was a mentor, a guide, and a light in the lives of hundreds of students. Her former students often share stories of how her care, patience, and belief in them shaped the course of their lives. Teaching wasn't just her profession—it was her calling.

A gifted trumpet player, Joyce was proud to have marched on the Husker field and was honored with the John Philip Sousa Award—an achievement later echoed by her daughter Brooke, a moment that brought her immense pride. She was also known for her talents in sewing, especially rodeo outfits bright enough to spot from the stands and the beautiful quilts she crafted with love. She was always creating, always giving, always encouraging.

Joyce had the patience of a Saint. (I think it was because she had to raise two boys.)

Her love and support for her children never wavered, whether it was hauling them to 4-H, FFA events, rodeos, or making sure they had every opportunity to chase their dreams. Her humor, wisdom, and stories—like the time she was on a trip with her Uncle and was so disappointed to find the Golden Gate Bridge wasn't actually golden—will be remembered and retold for generations.

Joyce is survived by her children: Judd Schomp of Martin, SD, and his daughters Hadley and Sadie Schomp and son Thad Schomp and his wife Devan, of Elkton, SD, and their children Dailynn, Josclynn, and Hayes Schomp; daughter Brooke Moeller and her husband Doug, of Pukwana, SD, and their daughters Bristol and Berkeley Moeller; a brother Russel Cook and daughter Heather (Dave) Serpa, Nathan (Lydia) Cook, Heath (Alicia) Cook and their children; and a sister,  Velda McPhail and son Travis McPhail.  She is also survived by many extended family members, dear friends, and generations of students whose lives she touched with kindness and care.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Ramona Cook and her husband, Steve Schomp.

Though our hearts ache at her passing, we find peace in knowing she is reunited with her beloved Steve, sharing stories and music once again. Her love lives on in her children, grandchildren, and all who were lucky enough to know her.

The family invites all who knew and loved her to share memories in her honor. Her legacy of love, laughter, and lifelong learning will never be forgotten.