Joy A. Ritchie

Joy Ann Ritchie (McNeley), 65, passed away Saturday, March 19th, 2022.

Joy was born March 28th, 1956 in Des Moines, Iowa to her father Maurice McNeley. A ray of sunshine from the start, Joy more than lived up to her name. She loved her friends and family fiercely and would drop everything to help, or just to listen. She believed that the little things mattered, that music could cure any ailment, and that as long as you did all things with love you would be okay.

She was an artist, a singer and steering wheel drummer, a brilliant Sorry! player, a candle collector, a story teller, an animal lover, a free spirit, the best devilled egg maker, a plant whisperer, an incredible wife and mother, and so much more.

Joy is survived by the love of her life, Thomas W. Ritchie; daughter Amy; step-daughters Joey, Leesa, and Samantha; and sisters Judy (Dennis) Eldridge and Nona McNeley.

She was preceded in death by her father Maurice, and her brother Steven McNeley.

In line with her wishes there will be no funeral.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Bidwell Riverside Services either by dropping off food pantry donations or shopping the Amazon wishlist on their website, or to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa through their website.

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Marilyn S.

05/15/2022

You never forget the friends who helped shape you into the person you are today. That was Joy to me. We shared so many experiences in life - and got through it all together. Even though distance and circumstances separated us these past few years, I always considered her my soul sister and best friend. I cherish the memories and will carry her in my heart always.

Sending my condolences and love to Tom, Amy and Judy -
What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, For all that we love deeply becomes a part of us. - Helen Keller