Joy Marilyn Earling

Joy Marilyn (Leaird) Earling was born March 3, 1929, and lived a long life marked by devotion to family, quiet strength, and enduring grace. Joy embodied her name which reflected the spirit she brought to those around her — steady, warm, and sincere. She passed peacefully in her sleep on a bright summer afternoon surrounded by family.

Mom Joy was kind and looked for the best in everyone. She loved beauty and taught her children to see beauty in Nature. She taught us to be resilient. She was curious about everything, was interested in other cultures, and active in her local International Club. Joy was a member of Eastern Star for more than 50 years. She was a lover of books and poetry. She had an artist's eye and was an accomplished painter of fine china. She could swing a hammer, put up tile, and paint a room. She taught her children that there were no limits to what they could do and become.

She traveled the world, loved spending time with family and friends, enjoyed classical music and jazz, dancing, and camping. After her children were all out of the house she worked as a Hostess at a Country Club. She was known as the "Hostess with the Mostest" at home and at work. And when husband Gene brought home business associates from other countries she’d find recipes typical of their region and invite them to a home cooked meal, much to their delight.

Grandma Joy was known for her deep love of family and her unwavering presence through many seasons of life to the very end. Those who knew her will remember her as someone who listened carefully, cared deeply and gave generously of herself. She always kept stacks greeting cards on hand for any occasion and token gifts to hand out just because. She routinely beat Tom and Beorah at 3 handed Pinocle!

She is survived by her beloved 4 children, Deborah (Tom Starrs), Vicki (Larry Baum, deceased), Charmaine, and Gerald.