Joyce (Jensen) Read

Date of birth  - September 25, 1934

Date of death  - April 11 , 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joyce Read, who was born to Esra B. and Bessie H. Jensen on September 25, 1934, and left this world on April 11, 2025, at the age of 90. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, sister, and friend, known for her kindness, strength, and unwavering love for those around her.

Born in Portal, North Dakota, Joyce Jonette Jensen, grew up in Bowbells, North Dakota, around many family members. During her growing up years she moved several times, following her father who was an educator in music, and later school administration. Joyce graduated from Molalla High School, in Molalla, Ore. in 1951, and later from Oregon State University in 1958 with a degree in business education and a minor in music.

In 1957 Joyce met the love of her life, Lyle Read, and they were married at the Corvallis United Methodist Church, in Corvallis, Ore. on June 7, 1959. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Canby, Ore. where Lyle started a successful insurance agency, and they lived there for most of (65) years.

In 1963, Lyle and Joyce joined the Canby Christian Church, the church they have still called "their church" to this day. Everyone who knew Joyce knew her as an extremely gifted musician, serving many years as the church organist at Canby Christian, where she also served as the Choir Director for a time. Joyce also was a substitute teacher in the Canby Elementary and High School districts, using her gifts of teaching and her love for students to help raise future generations. She also taught private organ and piano lessons in her home.

Joyce dedicated her life to service in both the church and the community. She was an active member of the Lions Auxiliary in Canby, and an active volunteer at many community events and activities. She found joy in her music, in ministering in various ways to friends, family, and strangers alike. There was never a holiday in her home where there were no extra guests at her table, and she loved serving everyone who came through the door.

Mostly, Joyce loved her family. She was an exceptional mother to her children, and exceptional grandmother, and most of all an exceptional wife for nearly (66) years. Her presence brought warmth and wisdom to all who knew her. Her laughter, guidance, and generosity will be profoundly missed.

Joyce is survived by her loving husband, Lyle; her son Dan Read (Laura) of Monroe, Wash.; her daughter Marni Brooks (Ken) of Waldport, Ore;, her brother Keith Jensen of Canby, Ore.; as well as grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; cousins and countless friends and loved ones who cherished her dearly. Her love for others, and especially her love for her Lord Jesus Christ, is what defined her most, and will be remembered by all.

A service to celebrate her life will be held on May 4, 2025, at 2:30 PM, at Canby Christian Church. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canby Christian Church, in her honor.

Her memory will live on in our hearts forever.