In Memory of Joyce: Memorial Fund for Her Beloved Family

Dr. Joyce Polidoro Chiumento passed away from natural causes over the Fourth of July weekend, 2025, at the age of 82. Born in 1943 in Philadelphia to William and Josephine Polidoro, Joyce was a bright and dedicated student from an early age. She went on to earn her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in sociology from Temple University, graduating with top honors and receiving multiple fellowships.

In 1968, Joyce married and honeymooned in the U.S. Virgin Islands—a place she would later call home. She began her career teaching in St. Thomas before returning to Pennsylvania, where she welcomed her daughters, Tara and Shanda. Joyce was known for her warmth, generosity, and spirited personality, often hosting gatherings and offering support to those around her.

A lifelong learner and accomplished professional, Joyce taught at several prestigious institutions including the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University. She was also a licensed counselor and consultant, blending sociology, psychology, and education in her work. In 1983, Joyce returned permanently to St. Thomas with her daughters. There, she built a thriving career in real estate, founding her own brokerage and managing properties both locally and stateside. Her love for the island and its people was evident in her service to the community. She even appeared in films such as A Woman Named Jackie and Weekend at Bernie’s II.

Joyce will be remembered as a vibrant, wise, and compassionate woman—a devoted mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her daughters, Tara Miles and Shanda Chiumento Overmyer; son-in-law, Nicholas; grandchildren, Portia, Roman, and Ariana; siblings, William Polidoro (Esther), Joanna Betesh (Marc), and Madeline Nick (Jeffrey), and many extended family members and dear friends. She was predeceased by her brothers Robert, James, and Gaeten, and by her beloved son-in-law, Erik Miles.

In Lieu of Flowers Donations may be made to the Joyce Chiumento Memorial Fund to support her beloved children and grandchildren in St. Thomas. The family has faced ongoing challenges from hurricanes, tropical storms, and the devastating, unexpected loss of Joyce’s son-in-law, Erik, last year. All contributions will go directly to Joyce’s family and serve as a living tribute to her legacy of love, compassion, and selfless care. Your generosity is deeply appreciated.

https://obits.cremationsocietyofphiladelphia.com/joyce-chiumento

Family members in the US are helping organize the fundraiser and manage donations as GoFundMe does not support accounts in US Virgin Islands.