Joyce Stasi

Joyce A. (Nash) Stasi, 69, of Des Moines, IA, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021, at her home.
Joyce was born December 21, 1951, in Des Moines, IA, to Joseph Daniel and Frances Elizabeth (Fleming) Nash.
Joyce attended Abraham Lincoln High School, graduating in 1970. She went on to attend Drake University in Des Moines, where she earned both a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree and a Master of Science in Education / Effective Teaching.
On August 5, 1978, she married John Stasi of Des Moines. They spent 15 loving years together, before his passing in 1993.
Joyce proudly taught at Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines for 43 years, where she gained a reputation as a trusted educator in the Visual Arts department. She took great joy in introducing her students to a variety of artistic disciplines, teaching courses in photography, art & design, and metals. Joyce was loved and valued by her colleagues, students, and their parents - having taught generations of families. Joyce's family teased that she was like a local celebrity, gladly receiving enthusiastic greetings wherever she went. Former students would frequently reminisce of the time spent in her classroom, and the positive impact she had on their lives.
Joyce was a very genuine and funny lady, who always saw the kindness and beauty in others. She was a watercolor artist, who had a wonderful perspective on the world. She enjoyed spending time with her cherished friends and beloved family members; including her sister Karen and brother John, with whom she spent countless hours visiting local parks, spotting deer and other wildlife. She was an avid fan of music, especially Eric Clapton, The Beatles, and Elton John, attending live concerts whenever possible. Joyce also had very special and meaningful relationships with all of her nieces and nephews.
Joyce is survived by her nieces and nephew, Carol George of Des Moines, IA, Suzanne George of Des Moines, IA, Linda George (Matthew Hill) of Clive, IA, Joleen Kennedy of Des Moines, IA, and Tom (Dianna) Nash of Elkhart, IA, her sister-in-law, Carolyn Nash of Des Moines, IA, and many other dear relatives and friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Stasi, sister, Sandra "Karen" George, brother John Nash, and her nieces and nephew, Debbie George, Barbara George and David Nash, all of Des Moines, IA.
A private graveside service will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Des Moines. A "celebration of life" will be scheduled at a later date, when our world is in a safer place.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa or the Puppy Jake Foundation, in loving memory of Joyce.

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