Obituary of Joye Nelle Howard

Joye Nelle Howard, age 81, of Olympia, died peacefully at home surrounded by those who loved her, on Friday, January 24, 2014, after a lengthy illness. She was born on January 1, 1933 in Hydro, Oklahoma, the daughter of the late Raymond and Mildred McMinn. Joye made Olympia her home in 1964. Her first husband, Douglas Pierson, was killed in 1969 and, in 1977, she married Richard W. Howard. After Dick’s passing in 2007, Joye was embraced by the love of her close neighbors in the Woodland Creek community and hosted several get-togethers with them each week until the week of her passing. Her friends and neighbors were her life’s greatest blessing, and the family is forever grateful for the love and kindness they bestowed upon her. She is survived by her daughter, Lori Pierson of Olympia; her son, Michael Pierson of Bermuda Dunes, Calif.; grandson, Douglas Howard of Olympia; and granddaughters, Amanda and Kellie Pierson of Bermuda Dunes. Also surviving are stepson, John Grostick of Tumwater and his family; and the greatest neighbors in the world. No service, but those wishing to honor Joye’s life are asked to lift a glass of their favorite adult beverage and toast her indomitable spirit. Please leave memories of Joye or condolences for her family in the Guestbook below.