Joy Wilcox

Joy Wilhelmsen Wilcox returned to her heavenly home on December 6, 2020. She was born February 7, 1944, in Ogden, Utah, to Mack and Maurine W. Wilhelmsen. Joy grew up in Idaho Falls where she graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1962. She enjoyed ice-skating on the rink her father built in their backyard. Her mother taught her how to cook, bake, and serve others. As a child, she learned how to paint with her grandfather, Niels Wilhelmsen, who was an accomplished artist; Joy was still painting until the last few months of her life.

In 1964, Joy moved to Clearfield, Utah, where she met the love of her life. On their second date, Norman knew she would be his wife. They were married on February 12, 1965, in the Idaho Falls Temple. Joy and Norman remained the dearest of friends and sweethearts for the nearly fifty-six years they were married. The last several weeks of her life, Norman never left Joy’s side. Thank you, Mom and Dad for teaching us how to truly love.

Mom’s greatest joy was her family. We knew we could count on her. She was our example, supporter, and greatest teacher. We all went to her to talk through problems and get advice. Her grandkids will always remember the sleepovers, the family vacations, and the homemade cookies she had waiting at every visit. She loved baking and preparing meals in the kitchen with her family. She knew the way to a person’s heart was through a good cooked meal or a baked treat.

Joy was famous for her pies. Countless friends and family received a homemade pie over the years. She tried to teach all of her kids—and some of her grandkids—how to bake a perfect crust, but no one will ever make a pie like Joy.

Joy had an unwavering testimony of the gospel and her Savior, Jesus Christ. She served in Primary, Relief Society, and Young Women Presidencies. She loved attending the temple and went often. One of her favorite experiences was serving in the Tennessee Nashville Mission with Norman. Every letter they sent home was signed, ‘Love, the Tennessee Two’—a phrase coined by Joy.

Joy fought her battle against cancer for two years, but her testimony never wavered. She knew her life was in the hands of the Lord. She remained positive and upbeat and kept living life to the fullest until the end. We have no doubt her reunion with loved ones in heaven has been a joyous occasion.

Joy is preceded in death by her parents, Mack and Maurine Wilhelmsen; and her brother Melvin Wilhelmsen.

She is survived by her husband Norman Wilcox; her children Lauri Wilcox, Teresa (Dwayne) Saviano, Darrell Wilcox, Trent (Alicia) Wilcox, Kelton (Brandee) Wilcox, Joylinn (David) Mildon, and Dallas (Heidi) Wilcox; twenty-two grandchildren and one great-grandchild; her brothers and sisters, Janice (LeRoy) Dennis, Marilyn (Michael) Brinkerhoff, Stanley (Bertha) Wilhelmsen, Roger (Cheryl) Wilhelmsen, Kevin (Becky) Wilhelmsen; and her sister-in-law Linda Wilhelmsen.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, we will not be able to hold a viewing. Funeral service will be for invited family and guests only, Friday December 11, 2020 at 11:00

a.m. at the Wilcox Meadows Ward Chapel, 2500 W. 700 S., Syracuse.  Interment, Syracuse City Cemetery.

We invite you to join us for a live broadcast of the service by accessing the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88048693928