Joyce was born in Hilo, HI to Arthur Jess and Margaret (Meservey) Jess. Joyce was the 3rd oldest of 5 children. As a child her fondest memories were being in Illahe with her mother and grandmother. Joyce graduated from Ephrata High School in 1959. She went on to attend BYU in Hawaii where she met her first husband, Fotu and had her first son, David Soliai. Joyce moved back to Quincy, WA where she met Cleo (Max) Gardner. Together they had 5 children they raised on their farm.
Joyce was an amazing cook and generous beyond measure. She was known for her delicious cinnamon rolls and beautiful wedding cakes. She worked as a school bus driver while raising her family. Joyce was a talented artist and created heartfelt paintings for her loved ones. She could often be challenged to a game of cribbage where you were sure to lose.
Joyce had a wandering soul and loved to travel. Her passion for culture and adventure began at a young age. Some of her greatest adventures were with her grandchildren down on the Rogue River and a month-long trip to Australia. Joyce’s travels with family and friends took her to Mongolia, Chile, Greece, and many Native American sacred places that were dear to her heart. Joyce had a zest for culture that included heartfelt moments all over the globe. Joyce passed on her love and appreciation of nature to all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Joyce is preceded in death by her husband Max Gardner and son David Soliai-Gardner.
Joyce is survived by her children Kally (Russ) Bryan, Ann Phelps, Lyn (Todd) Hoff, Tom (Jennifer) Gardner, Rand (Kaari) Gardner, 14 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, her sister Kathy (Mike) Kniep and brother Coulee Sheets.
A service will be held in the Spring along the Rogue River.
In honor of Joyce and the generous donations she received along her journey, the family requests that those who are able, make a blood donation to the American Red Cross.
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