Joy Marie Thorpe

Joy attended Oakland University and began her professional career in environmental health engineering, where she worked for 10 years. She ultimately chose to leave that career to devote her time to raising her two beloved daughters, Emily and Caleigh. Being a mother was one of the most important roles of her life.

Joy later found another calling in education, becoming a first-grade teacher at Graham Elementary School in the Avondale School District. She loved teaching and poured her heart into her students, spending countless hours outside the classroom planning lessons and preparing for each school day. Her commitment to her students reflected her caring nature and her desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Joy shared 40 years of marriage with her beloved husband, David Thorpe, building a life centered on family, love, and the many memories they created together. Above all, Joy was a devoted mother to her daughters, Emily and Caleigh, who were the center of her world. She had a special way of making sure everyone around her was cared for, always putting others first and offering love and support whenever it was needed.

Joy had a wonderful sense of humor and a truly infectious laugh that could brighten a room and bring people together. Her laughter, kindness, and loving spirit made her unforgettable to those who knew her. She also had a special love for dogs, especially the family dogs, Bentley and Finn, who brought her so much happiness.

Joy is survived by her beloved husband, David Thorpe; her daughters, Emily (William) Sheahan-Stahl and Caleigh Thorpe; her siblings, Janice (Tom) Harrington, Joseph (Marie) Haezebrouck, James Haezebrouck; her sister-in-law, Mary (Roy) Downie; many cherished nieces and nephews; and dear friends who will miss her laughter, kindness, and friendship. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Jeannette Haezebrouck, and her brother, Jon Haezebrouck.

Joy will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through her work, the love she gave so freely, and the laughter and memories she leaves behind. She will forever be remembered for her generous heart, her unwavering devotion to her family, and the joy she brought to the world around her.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 11AM at Pixley Funeral Home- Rochester, 322 West University Drive, Rochester, MI.

Visitation will be take place from 4PM - 8PM on Friday, October 23 and again at 10AM until the time of service on Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to the Sleepy Dog Books Foundation in Joy's memory.