Obituary of Joyce Halfen Root

Joyce H. Root, 94, of Abington, PA, passed away on April 28, 2025, after a period of declining health. Born in Akron, Ohio, Joyce Halfen Root graduated from the University of Akron in 1952 with a degree in history. She earned a Master of Library Science from Drexel University in 1973. Joyce's life was marked by curiosity, creativity, and service. At various times she taught ballet, co-managed an independent bookstore, worked as registrar at the Jenkintown Music School, and volunteered at the Jenkintown Public Library. She was a creator of beautiful gardens, as well as an amateur painter, skilled seamstress, and picture framer. From 1994 to 2014, Joyce was an active member of the Old York Road Historical Society, serving as cataloguer, librarian/archivist, photo archivist, and board member. She contributed to several Images of America local history books. Joyce considered her daughters from her first marriage to Harley M. Hanson – Karen, Alexandra and Anne – to be her greatest achievement. Following the dissolution of that marriage, she wed Franklin R. "Russ" Root in 1976. She is survived by her daughters, grandson McWelling Hanson Todman and his wife Samara, sons-in-law Marc Springer and McWelling Todman, and stepchildren Michele Root-Bernstein, Peter Root, Valerie Root Wolpe, Allan Root, and Jonathan Root, along with their families. She was predeceased by her husband Russ, her parents Robert and Emily, and brothers Robert and Donald. Funeral services and burial will be private. Memorial donations may be made to the Old York Road Historical Society, 515 Meetinghouse Road, Jenkintown, PA 19046.