IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Joy Eleen

Joy Eleen Debruyne Profile Photo

Debruyne

Jun 25, 1940 — Nov 3, 2022

Obituary

Joy Eleen (Calkins) DeBruyne, redeemed by the blood of Christ, age 82, was transported into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Thursday, November 3, 2022, after a lengthy battle with Lewy Body Dementia. She was preceded in death by their daughter, Beth Lynn Mohr in 1998, and still-born grandson Stephen Mohr. She is survived by her husband of 62 years Larry; son Bradley (Lori) DeBruyne, daughter Jacqueline Crim; grandchildren David Mohr, Jonathan Mohr, Benjamin Mohr, Brooke Pitsch, Bryce DeBruyne, Madeline Crim and Emma Crim; son-in-law Dr. D. Jeffrey (Joy) Mohr; and many nieces and nephews. Joy and Larry met at Calvary Reformed Church where he was the organist and Joy sang in the choir. She loved southern gospel music and in addition to church choirs she was a guest soloist in other churches from time to time. She was a great supporter of Larry's church music involvement, for which he greatly admired and appreciated her, and he thanks God for her unending love and for all the years they had together. Her most fulfilling job was being a stay-at-home mom, and then after the children were grown, she became a medical assistant, a desire she always had. Joy will be remembered as a loving and supportive wife, mother, and Oma – and a fantastic cook. Sunday family dinners were her specialty. For several years, she and Larry enjoyed spending time on their sailboat, the "Ode to Joy." After Larry's retirement they wintered in Florida. Of all the things she enjoyed, her family was her pride and joy. Life will never be full again without her. With the help of family, friends, and especially care nurses Ashley, Christina, Sue, Amy, Stephanie, and Hospice nurse Paul, Larry was able to care for Joy at home until the end. Thank you also to Hospice Pastor Beth, and Pastor Curry and Barb for their comforting visits and ministry. She was also preceded in death by her five siblings: Mae Truax, Max Calkins, Bernice Vogel, Russel Calkins, and Dana Nykamp. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 6, 2022, from 4-7pm at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Interment Georgetown Cemetery. A memorial service honoring her faith in the Lord, love for her family, and life will be held on Monday, November 7, 2022, at 7pm at the Orchard Hill Reformed Church, 1465 Three Mile Rd. NW. In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory to Faith Hospice 2100 Raybrook St. SE, Suite 300, Grand Rapids MI 49546 would be appreciated.

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Funeral Services

Visitation

November
6

Sunday

4:00 - 7:00 pm

Service

November
7

Monday

Starts at 7:00 pm

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