Joyce Marie (Nerland) Davis was born on April 3, 1933 in Roslyn, South Dakota to Emma (Lensegrav) and Ed Nerland. Her ancestors came from Norway to homestead in the Dakota Territory. She grew up in Roslyn and Webster, with her siblings Earl, Calvin (Kelly), and Norma, before moving with her parents to Florence where she graduated from the high school. On August 28, 1954 she married Valdo John Davis. Together they farmed near Estelline and raised their five children.

While her family always came first, Joyce also loved music, reading, and the return of lilacs and songbirds each spring. Birthdays and holidays were never forgotten. Visiting with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren brought her great joy and they all appreciated her kindness, sense of humor, and excellent baking.

Joyce passed away on March 31 at the Brookings Hospital after a short illness and a time of declining health.

Grateful for having shared her life are her children Arlene (John Peterson), of Chapel Hill, NC; Patricia (Tim Tesch) of Watertown; Steven Davis, of Estelline; Robert Davis (Althea) of Brookings; and James Davis (fiancée Laurie Emery), of Estelline, as well as six grandchildren Jessica, Dustin, Sarah (Craig Giang), Jack, Joe, and Cody, and two great grandchildren, Braylon and Briella. Her three nieces and a nephew, and other family and friends, will also miss her.

Preceding Joyce in death were her beloved husband of 60 years, granddaughter Jennifer, and her parents, siblings, and a niece and nephew.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at the United Church of Christ in Estelline, SD. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at Geise Funeral Home in Estelline. Geise Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family through www.geisefuneralhome.com