Joy Ellen Nemanich passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, faith, friendship, and enough baked goods to keep memories warm for years to come.

Joy was born on June 12, 1942. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, John R. Nemanich, on October 15, 1966. Together they built a life rooted in family, community, laughter, and steadfast devotion.

Joy was a proud 1960 graduate of Mooseheart, where she lived with her siblings from the age of eight until graduation. While at Mooseheart, she proudly participated in the Mooseheart Girls Drum and Bugle Corps.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; siblings Nancy (Dick) Forsell, Carol Blake, Chet (Judy) Albright, Bob Albright; brother-in-law Fred Beecher; sons-in-law Kenny Newton and Brian Lakin; and her beloved granddaughters, Hollie Konrady and DesiRae Nemanich

Joy is survived by her loving daughters, Valarie Lakin, Sheri (Fran) Klaas, and Laura Newton; siblings Rick (RoseAnne) Albright, Jack (Sherry) Albright, in-laws Bob Blake, Paulette Albright, Dan Nemanich, Raellyn Beecher and Tim (Vicki) Nemanich.

She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Shannon Elliott; Bailey (Chase) Gianacakos; Payton (Mike) Moderhack; Riley Klaas; Mason Klaas; Aiden (Casey) Klaas; John (Jenna) Newton; Samantha (Jonathan) Rogge. Her great-grandchildren include Cayden, Madison, Drew, Emily, Jaxon, Violet, Daisy, Griffin, and Grayson, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Joy wore many hats throughout her life: beautician, babysitter, trusted employee, volunteer, bowler, baker, crafter, friend and most importantly mom. She worked at Hendrick's Toy Store in Aurora, Holland's Drugstore, and Kmart bringing warmth and kindness wherever she went.

Joy and John shared a special love for Arizona, where they made many friends and attended St. Germaine's Church in Prescott Valley. Back home, in Illinois Joy was deeply involved in her community. She bowled in leagues in Aurora, Plano, and through the Moose Club. She and John were instrumental in forming the H.A.L.T. Club in Yorkville and served on the original board of Parkview Christian Academy. She was also active in St. Patrick's Church, the Red Hats Club, Women of the Moose and the Yorkville Women's Club.

Of all Joy's gifts, perhaps none was sweeter than her baking. Her banana nut bread achieved legendary status among family and friends, many believed no visit was complete without something delicious coming from Joy's kitchen. In later years, she found joy in diamond painting, carefully creating beautiful pieces that she lovingly gave away, because Joy's happiness was often found in making others smile.

She will be remembered for her strong faith, generous heart, and her remarkable ability to make a house feel like a home. She leaves behind a legacy of service and the reminder that love is often expressed in simple acts-like a warm loaf of bread shared with someone you love.

Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026 from 3:00 - 6:00 P.M. at the Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543.

Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. at the St. Patrick Catholic Church, 406 Walnut Street Yorkville, IL 60560.

Inurnment on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery,20953 W. Hoff Road, Elwood, IL. Family and Friends are asked to meet directly at the cemetery at 10:45 A.M.

For additional information 630/554-3888 or www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com