Joyce Esther Jones passed away peacefully on March 4, 2024, at the age of 94 in the Keosauqua Care Center. Born on a summer day, July 18, 1929, in the small town of Wessington Springs, South Dakota. Her journey took her from the open plains of her birth to a life rich with experiences across the Midwest and the warmth of Texas sunsets.
On June 14, 1946, in Huron, South Dakota, Joyce’s heart found its match in Lester L. Jones. Together, they wove a life of shared moments and memories, living in Huron and Weslaco, Texas, with cherished times in Sterling, Illinois, Bloomington, Minnesota, Bettendorf, and Davenport, Iowa. The couple’s enduring love and partnership were the foundations upon which their family grew. Joyce always worked very hard as a stay-at-home mom and homemaker. Eventually, Joyce settled in Keosauqua to be near her son Tim and his wife Kathy, a testament to her devotion to family.
Joyce was a woman of grace and vitality. She danced through life with a song in her heart, collecting moments like she collected dolls and antiques. Her passion for the simple pleasures—feeding the birds, enjoying the winters in Texas, and traveling to visit her extended family—spoke of a woman who embraced every day with enthusiasm and warmth. Joyce’s spirit was a beacon that drew people to her, and her love for life was infectious.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Joyce is survived by her son Tim and his wife Kathy, her adoring grandchildren Nicole, Jenny, and Charlie Jones, and a host of nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. Joyce now joins in eternal rest her parents, William and Opal Waldron, and beloved husband Lester, her sons Tom and Steve, her brothers Manford, Harvey, and Cecil Waldron, and her sisters Betty and Charlotte (Tony) Searing, who preceded her in passing.
In accordance with her wishes, her body has been cremated and a celebration of Joyce’s life will be held at a later date in Huron, South Dakota, where family and friends will gather to honor a woman whose life was as full as the skies of her birthplace
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this time. All condolences can be sent to the Jones family at 19297 Rte. J40, Keosauqua, IA 52565. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com
