Thief River Falls – Joy Diane Noel Gillespie, born on October 25, 1944, in New York City, NY, to Duane and Alverda (Lund) Noel, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Joy was raised in Thief River Falls, where she attended Knox Elementary School and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1962. Shortly after high school, she began working at N.W. Bell and later for School District 564.
On October 5, 1963, she married Neil Gillespie, and together they built a life filled with love and cherished memories over their 62 years of marriage.
A woman of many talents and passions, Joy enjoyed crafts, baking, teaching ceramics, gardening, traveling, motorcycle trips with Neil, and attending her grandchildren’s activities. She was also a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 117.
Joy is survived by her devoted husband, Neil; son, Steve Gillespie of Thief River Falls; and three beloved grandchildren, Elle Gillespie of Anchorage, AK, Cole Gillespie of Henderson, NV, and Grace Gillespie of Grand Forks, ND. She will also be deeply missed by her many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Duane and Alverda; her son, Brian; her sister, Julie; her grandparents; and other relatives and friends.
Joy’s warmth and dedication to her family and community will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she leaves behind.
The Gillespie family would like to thank the Red River Valley Hospice team for their time and support.
A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with Rev. Kristin Ostercamp officiating.
A visitation was held from 5–7 p.m., with a prayer service at 6 p.m., on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls. Visitation also took place one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.
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