Joyce “Joy” Julie Bryant, 68, of Mesa, Arizona, entered into eternal rest at her home on September 28, 2026, surrounded by her three children and daughter-in-law.

Joyce was born in Joliet, Illinois, on July 13, 1958 to Dorven and Dorothy Govig. Growing up on her parents' farm during her early years and later moving with her family to Creston, Illinois, Joy was a self-described tomboy. She possessed an active imagination, loved playing with her childhood dog and pony, and was an avid reader of mystery and western books. Throughout her life, she found great peace and fulfillment in creative pursuits, especially perennial and succulent gardening, cross-stitch, crochet, completing intricate coloring books, and crafting diamond dots. Through her involvement in a neighborhood crochet club, Joy handcrafted shawls for cancer patients and bonnets, booties, and baby blankets for the Labor and Delivery ward at her local hospital.

Joyce is survived by her three children: Dirk (Ashlee) Bryant of Mesa, Arizona, Jason (Taylor) Bryant of Kyle, Texas, and Jaime (Kyle) Billert of Ashburn, Virginia; and her four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dorven and Dorothy Govig, and her paternal aunt, Nola (Mike) Abbott.

A graveside service will take place on Friday, October 30, 2026 at Woodlawn Cemetery at 11:00 AM. Following, the family will host a luncheon at The Creston Emporium, 107 Main St., Creston, IL 60113, from approximately 12:00 to 3:30 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for stories and/or pictures of Joyce to be shared.

Prior to the above arrangements, the family hosted a Celebration of Life in Mesa AZ, in alignment with Joyce’s wishes. The Unger-Horner Funeral Home is assisting with the burial. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.