Joyce Williams

 

I'm sorry to announce that Joyce Williams, author of Lativan Dreams and co-author of Armenian Knitting and Sweaters from Camp, passed away yesterday.

It is Joyce's style, smile, and discursive way of talking that I will remember most. A small, elegant woman who could wear scarves with elan, who designed garments of breathtaking loveliness, and who was never afraid to find a better way to knit. The photo above, taken at Meg Swansen's Knitting Camp in 2006, shows Joyce wearing her Olive Branch Sweater (the pattern can be found in Armenian Knitting).

Luckily, Joyce's amazing ability to develop technical solutions to knitting problems is (largely) still available in her book, Latvian Dreams. A careful reading of the technical introduction—entitled "Techniques—Please Read This Section (or you will miss all the fun)"—and virtual knitting of the patterns open up a world of possibilities. Mitered corners in the round, for example. Joyce introduced the idea of knitting a small circumference on two circular needles through her articles in Knitter's Magazine and she perfected the toe-up, short-row heel construction of socks. She was a meticulous knitter and happy to share her knowledge.

My fondest memories of Joyce are of her happily centered in a group of people, whether a late night gathering of knitters at Knitting Camp or a boisterous group at the lobby bar at Madrona. Her smile and eager conversation were distinctive. The last thing she said to me as I left Knitting Camp three weeks ago was, "See you at Madrona!" 

And I had assumed I would.

Comments

[CCK]

Sadness..

[Katie K]

Wow, how did you find out that she died? Thanks for posting about her. She sounds like she was a lovely person as well as a talented designer.

[Greg]

I'm so happy I had the chance at Camp a few weeks ago to stay up until well after midnight with Joyce. She was one in a million; I was proud to call her my friend. St. Peter will being wearing fabulous sweaters in no time.

[Colleen]

We will all miss Joyce. I can't imagine Camp without her.

[Mary]

I just feel a great sadness.

[Stephanie]

Oh, I feel so sad. I didn't know Joyce but saw her at Camp and then at Madrona and she was always smiling and so pleased to talk to anybody who stopped by to introduce themselves. I feel for those who knew and loved her well. What a loss.

[Leanne Menninga]

I still can't believe she's no longer with us. Besides her enormous talent, she always had time to answer questions and give help when asked - either in person or by email. Camp will not be the same without her.