Joy A. Rill

Joy Ann Rill, 76, of Manawa, passed away on July 2nd, 2024 at home surrounded by her loved ones. Joy was born on October 2nd, 1947 to John and Loretta (Sasada) Rill in Ashland, WI. When Joy was a year old, she became ill and thus became permanently disabled as a result. Joy overcame the odds and lived a long and healthy life. Joy brought much happiness and love to all who were lucky to know her, enjoying life to the fullest.

Joy initially resided in Rhinelander and then lived at Lakeview Manor in Weyauwega. For 14 years she resided in the home of Tom and Kathy Smith and their beloved dogs in Fremont, where she went on many adventures, out to eat, shopping, to the movies, and library - just to name a few. For the past 5 years, first part-time, then full-time Joy resided in the home of Jose' and Stacy Leon and their children. Joy became especially close with Azelia, their youngest daughter. You could say they were best friends, and Joy was happiest around her, playing school, hair salon, getting mani-pedi's, and dress up - you name it. During this time the adventures continued for Joy, always on the move, (camping as recently as Memorial Day), taking trips - wholly accepted as a member of the Leon family.

Joy attended Cahoots for several years and met many friends there as well.

Joy is survived by her sister Debra (Mark) Passehl, sister-in-law Karen Rill and many nieces and nephews.

She is also survived by Caregivers: Tom and Kathy Smith and their fur babies; Jose' and Stacy Leon and their children: Chaseline, Katelynn, Austin, Claudia, and Azelia.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather: Herbert Handrich; brother: Jim Rill; sister: Janis McWey.

A celebration of Joy's life will be held at the Dahlke Life Celebration Center in Manawa on Saturday July 13, 2024. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 am with a gathering of family and friends from 9:30 am until the time of the service.

Special Thanks to Joy's selfless caregivers who gave her such happiness over the past several years: Tom and Kathy Smith; Jose' and Stacy Leon and children: Chaseline, Katelynn, Austin, Claudia, and Azelia. Special thanks to her best friend Azelia, who brought so many adventures to her life.

The family would like to thank ThedaCare Hospice nursing, social workers, and chaplain Ben. 

Joy's name was perfect for her because she brought such genuine 'Joy' to everyone she encountered. Her parents, brother and sister, will be very happy and excited to see her in heaven where there will be no disability or pain.