Joyce Helen Willis

Joyce Helen (Lesher) Willis, 91, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at Five Star Assisted Living in Fresno. Joyce was born in Fresno, CA on March 12, 1930, to Oliver O. Lesher and Marit Edel (Pedersen) Lesher.

Joyce had very fond memories of her growing up years on East Washington Ave. Her brother, Gerald Howard Lesher was born on April 15, 1935. She attended Jackson School. In 1947, she graduated mid-year from Roosevelt High School. Joyce spoke very highly of her Roosevelt years and had many lasting friendships. One of her Roosevelt friends introduced her to a handsome young man, Norman James Dick. They were married on January 30, 1948 in the chapel of the First Presbyterian Church, Fresno. First born to the couple was a daughter, Norma Joyce Dick, and a year later a son, Norman James Dick, Jr. Joyce was an avid homemaker and gardener. On the weekends, there were camping trips to the Sierras, boating on Millerton Lake and lots and lots of extended family celebrations.

Later in life, her love of children led her to a career in Early Childhood Education. She was guided into this field by Nina Hamm. Nina with her husband, Phillip, established the Hamm Schools in Fresno. Through the years, children and their families, and staff had cherished memories of “Miss Joyce”.

Joyce embarked on a new journey with Aubrey “Gene” Willis. They married on June 30, 1976. She enjoyed their many road trips to visit Gene’s family in the central valley and Oregon.

Joyce valued family. She was there for graduations, marriages, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She carried on Danish traditions like making Danish butter cookies for friends and family which brought all great joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her ex-husband Norman James Dick, Sr; husband Aubrey “Gene” Willis; and her brother, Gerald H. Lesher. Joyce is survived by her children, Norma Wynn and husband Edward, and Norman Dick Jr. and wife Chrissy; grandchildren Michael Dick and wife Jennifer; Christopher Wynn and wife Lynda, and Bethany Ghigliotto and husband Tom; and three great grandchildren, Madisen Dick, Grant Ghigliotto, and Cole Ghigliotto.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to: Central California SPCA

103 S Hughes Ave, Fresno, CA 93706