After suffering a stroke Joyce Jacobson died surrounded by her loving family after having lived independently at her home of 74 years, until her passing.
Joyce was born to Clarance and Jenni Baker in 1925 and raised in Thompson Falls during the great depression. She graduated from high school early in May 1943 because the senior boys were all drafted into World War II. Out of patriotism, Joyce enlisted in the Cadet Nurse Corp and attended St. Mary’s School of Nursing at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester Minnesota. She graduated and became a registered nurse in 1946 and continued at the Mayo Clinic as a head floor nurse. Later she volunteered with the Red Cross for the polio epidemic iron lung unit in Los Angeles General Hospital.
In 1948 Joyce moved to Helena, Montana, and began working at the Berg Clinic, where she met her future husband who came in because he had broken his foot in a skiing accident. Herbert Jacobson and Joyce Baker married in 1950 and had four children; Hal, Jan, Garth and Heidi. Herbert died in 1995. Subsequently, Joyce married the widower, Lyle Clow in 2007 and they enjoyed many happy years before Lyle’s death 2013.
Although her number one priority was raising her children, Joyce also maintained a professional career working for several doctors and care facilities in Helena. She was known for her excellent nursing skills which was evidenced by her becoming the first recovery room nurse at St. Peter’s Hospital.
Joyce thrived as a dedicated and enthusiastic volunteer; She started the First Aid Booth at the Last Chance Stampede, was a founding member of Westmont, one of the first home health care organizations in the nation, she was also the President of the Helena Nursing Association. Additionally, she enjoyed over 75 years involvement with the Eastern Star (elevated to Worthy Matron), Daughters of the Nile and the Helena Homemakers.
Joyce’s passions also included duplicate bridge (almost achieved life master) and years of book club participation even after losing her sight.
Joyce was proceeded in death by her parents, her sisters, Shirley and Phyllis (Bo), her first husband Herbert and her second husband Lyle. She is survived by Hal (Mary), Jan (Les) Garth (Cindy), Heidi and stepson Mike Clow (Carol).
Please join her children in a funeral service and celebration Joyce’s 99-year joyful life to be held on October 24th at 11:00 am at St. Peters Episcopal Church, Helena, Montana, reception to follow. Memorials should be sent to St. Peter’s Episcopal or the charity of your choice.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday October 24, 2024
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Rite of Committal
Following the service
Thursday October 24, 2024
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral Columbarium
511 N Park Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the burial
Thursday October 24, 2024
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday October 24, 2024
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Rite of Committal
Following the service
Thursday October 24, 2024
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral Columbarium
511 N Park Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the burial
Thursday October 24, 2024
St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral
511 N Park Ave.
Helena, Montana 59601
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Jill Caldwell says
Joyce was a tireless supporter of WestMont, and one of my husband’s biggest cheerleaders. I am forever grateful for her kindness over the years. I pass her home every day and say a silent hello to such an extraordinary woman. Rest well, Joyce. You deserve it!
Allen Carter says
Joyce, (mumsie) was a beautiful supporter of my football career at USC and playing for the New England Patriots and my wedding. I will never forget the refreshing and encouraging conversations she shared with me. I will always love and remember the positive influence Joyce (mumsie) has had on my life! I know you are in heaven smiling at your wonderful family. Always in my heart ❤️.
Tom Naegele says
Joyce was a Super Mom to the neighborhood kids, in the day. Also a very kind friend as we grew older. Support & Prayers for the Jacobson and Clow Family’s 🙏❤️ Thanks Joyce for your friendship over the years and R I.P. Joyce.
jeff and melissa sherlock says
A wonderful lady. Peace to her family.
Jillian says
Beautiful Life!
StoneCarlsons says
Hal and Mary and all of Joyce’s family,
Being unable to attend services, please know
we care and send our sincere sympathies
regarding Joyce’s passing. May she rest in peace.
Blessings all,
StoneCarlsons
Barbara Hartwick says
Dear Joyce’s family. This is Barbara Hartwick. My parents are Bill and Marion Hartwick. Joyce was my dad’s cousin, her mom being Aunt Jane to my dad. I posted a picture of our family visit to Helena in 1963. You can see L-R Janet, Hal, Joyce, Jane, Ann, Kathy, Garth and Barbie. I hope you enjoy the picture. I have wonderful memories of our trip to Montana.
I’m so sorry for the loss of Joyce. She sounds like a wonderful person. I wish we could attend the memorial service and connect with family. Hugs!
StoneCarlsons says
StoneCarlsons send our sincere sympathies to Hal, Mary and all their families in the loss of Joyce. A better Helena for all of us was always on her radar! May you treasure all the good memories. C&C
Vickie Rauser says
Sympathy and prayers to Joyce’s family and friends. Joyce and I, along with other friends, traveled together on the Eastern Star trail several, several years ago. I recall she often had us in stitches (haha) with some of her nursing stories. RIP Joyce!