“You Can Always Count on Me”
Words and music by Hanna Honors
with Mrs. Poper’s 4th Grade Class
©2025 Hanna Honors
Grew up in Hot Springs and Buffalo Gap
On the ranch with my brother, mom and pap.
Taking care of the chickens and the cows.
I’m a tomboy at heart and I sure am proud
To be a real hard worker.
When it comes to helping each other,
You can always count on me
In the middle of a cold dark night.
Helped my dad Floyd pull a calf into life!
My momma Emily was the kindest nurse you knew.
She helped me believe I could help people too.
Be a real kind friend.
When it comes to helping each other,
you can always count on me
Chorus
Treat everyone the way you’d wanna be.
Be kind to your friends and enemies.
Most importantly, don’t be a bully
And that’s how you score a home run!
Girls couldn’t play baseball in school.
But my friends and I overruled that rule.
Broke Benny’s nose when he pitched me the ball.
But gee it was fun to play baseball!
And be a real good sport.
When it comes to helping each other,
You can always count on me
Met my husband Tom in our 5th grade class.
We haven’t left Custer since 1966.
Married 40 years and three swell kids
Marty, Terry, Larry and 8 grandkids!
We taught them to be real kind friends.
When it comes to helping each other,
You can always count on me.
Chorus
When I grew up, I wanted to be
Inspiring to boys and girls like me.
Caring for kids more than 35 years.
If you need help, I’ll lend an ear!
I’ll be a real kind friend.
When it comes to helping each other,
You can always count on me
Chorus
Joyce Hand’s story is one of adventure, family, and a life well-lived. Born on August 17, 1942, in Hot Springs, South Dakota, Joyce grew up in both Buffalo Gap and Hot Springs, where she eventually graduated from high school. She fondly remembers her childhood as a busy and active time, filled with tree climbing, bike rides, and playing cowboys. Her tomboy spirit and love for adventure stayed with her throughout her life.
After marrying her husband, Tom, whom she first met in fifth grade, Joyce embarked on a journey full of exciting travels. Together, they explored nearly every state in the U.S., sharing adventures and creating cherished memories. They were married for 40 years, celebrating their life together with a shared love for fishing, dancing, and family traditions. Joyce often recalls fishing in Pierre and little towns like Vivian, where the thrill of catching trout remains one of her favorite memories.
Joyce’s life has always revolved around family and community. She and Tom raised three children—Marty, Terry, and Larry—and were blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. She worked as a daycare provider for 35 years, a role she loved deeply, and was known for her nurturing spirit and ability to connect with children. Whether carhopping as a young woman or caring for her family, Joyce’s warmth and love for people always shone through.
Faith and values are central to Joyce’s life. She believes in God, honesty, and treating everyone equally. She advises young people to listen to their teachers, be kind to friends and enemies, and never be a bully. These lessons are a reflection of her own upbringing and the values instilled by her parents, Emily and Floyd.
A lover of history, home economics, and reading, Joyce is a lifelong learner. She cherishes classic books like Little House on the Prairie and enjoys hobbies such as painting, crocheting, and embroidery. Joyce’s favorite moments are those spent with family, whether celebrating Christmas or hosting big Fourth of July gatherings in her parents’ backyard.
Even at 82, Joyce continues to inspire those around her. Her life is a testament to the power of resilience, kindness, and finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. She reminds us all to approach life with a sense of adventure, embrace community, and treasure the time spent with loved ones.
Thank you, Joyce Hand, for sharing your wisdom and life story with us.