Joyel Eleighsha Burbul, a 20-year Pagosa Springs resident, passed away in her home on Wednesday, Jan. 14. Joyel was born in Philadelphia, Penn., on Jan. 12, 1943, and relocated as a young adult to Kensington, Md., where she lived for over 30 years. In 1995, she moved to Pagosa Springs with her husband, Joseph, where they enjoyed a happy life together, grateful for the close friendships formed and the serenity of their mountain home.
Joyel spent over 30 years as a talented and respected massage therapist. In recent years, she started a business selling her own line of essential oils blends. Inspired by her passion for the Earth, Joyel created these essences to help foster healing and partnership between people and the Earth.
Joyel was known for her humor, playful spirit and love of nature and beauty. Joyel had an innate ability to create beauty in her home. Especially during the Christmas seasons, she provided much inspiration for family and friends with the detailed attention she gave to decorating her magnificent family-home Christmas trees.
Joyel’s loving nature and nurturing spirit touched the hearts of all who knew her. Joyel will be greatly missed by her family, friends and community.
Joyel is survived by: her husband of 39 years, Joseph; her four children and their families; daughter Robyn Patkus, husband Danny Patkus and their daughter Abigail and son Matthew; her son Mark Jenkins; her daughter Karen Burbul and husband Richard Greenstreet; and her daughter Pam Burbul.
Memorial services celebrating Joyel’s life will be held both in Pagosa Springs and in the Maryland/Virginia area.
