Joy Olson

Joy Olson, 96, of Great Falls, passed away Saturday, October 5, 2019. A funeral service will be held Friday, November 15, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. with visitation one hour prior, both at Christ Lutheran Church in Libby, MT, with burial to follow at the Libby Cemetery. Joy was born to Robert and Elsie Witcombe on July 19, 1923, in Langham, Essex, England. She attended nursing school in London during WWII. She met the love of her life, Edwin M. Olson at her 21st birthday party in Langham. Ed was stationed at Boxstead Army Air Corp Base, which was located near Joy's home. They were married on April 7, 1945 just prior to VE Day. Their first child, Carol was born in England. After the war, the family moved to Libby, Montana, where she and Ed raised 6 children. They were married for over 50 years. Ed preceded Joy in death in 1998. She worked for 40 years at St John's Lutheran Hospital. She was 75 when she retired. She picked up two hobbies later in life. She enjoyed oil painting and crocheting. She was prolific in the production of afghans for her friends and family. She was active in Christ Lutheran Church until she moved to Great Falls in 2007, at which time she attended New City Church. She lived with her daughter, Carol until 2014. Later that year she moved to the Grandview at Benefis, where she lived until her death. The staff of the Grandview were wonderful caretakers and “family” to our mother. The family of Joy very much appreciates the love and respect the staff showed her over the five years she was a resident. Joy is survived by her children, Carol A. Rains (David) of Great Falls, Richard A. Olson (Linny) of Missoula, Cheryl L. Nelson (Dean) of Great Falls, Debra K. Setness (Ronald) of Park River, ND, Robert G. Olson (Connie) of Cut Bank, and James C. Olson (Mary) of Kalispell; 18 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews still in England. She enjoyed playing cards. She played a mean game of pinochle and taught many of her grandchildren to play cribbage. Joy epitomized her name. Many who knew her were blessed by her kindness, and caring disposition. We will miss our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, but she is happy to be with Jesus adorned in her heavenly body. Memorials in Joy’s name may be made to Peace Hospice, 1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT59405.