Joyce Loretta DeCoteau
May 16, 1934 – September 8, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Joyce L. DeCoteau on Monday, September 8, 2025, at the age of 91. Joyce left this world peacefully, surrounded by her family, who were the center of her life.

Joyce was born on May 16, 1934, in Belcourt, North Dakota, to Amanda and Ernest Davis. She grew up in Belcourt and married her husband, Richard DeCoteau, on June 16, 1954. Together, they raised three children: two daughters, Amanda and Cheryl, and a son, Brian. She held various jobs throughout her life, with her last position being an infant tracker for the community. She carried her roots and values with her every step of the way. Committed to her family and community, she consistently led with love, kindness, laughter, and faith.

Joyce will be remembered for her warm smile, generous heart, and the way she made everyone feel welcome and cared for. She enjoyed reading, crafting, traveling, attending church, and spending time with family and friends. Joyce took pleasure in life's simple blessings.

Joyce is survived by her children: Amanda Poitra of Utah, Cheryl (Roger) Peterson of Arizona, and Brian (Katina) DeCoteau of Bismarck. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Briana (Austin) Jeanotte, Dylan (Jackie) DeCoteau, and Brooke (TiRay) Azure, all from Belcourt; Brennon (Charolette) Poitra and Sheldon Poitra, both from Georgia; Laura Peterson of Maryland; Alyssa (Dan) Lnenicka of Arizona; and Parker DeCoteau and Brock DeCoteau, both from Bismarck. Joyce is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Grayson, Aubree, Brody, Brexli, Saylar, Aislynn, Kaydince, Laylonee, Talon, Layton, Landon, Greylynne, Jonas, Anthony, Jesus, Antonio, Gabriel, and Terrance. Additionally, she is remembered by her special friends Della Herdt and Shirley Langan, as well as many nieces and nephews. All of them will continue to honor her legacy by living their lives with the same love and grace she shared with them.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, mother and father, Amanda & Ernest, sisters Germaine Davis, Theresa Nelson, Barbara Davis, brother Dennis DeCoteau, and grandson Matthew Peterson.

Pallbearers include the great-grandsons. The gift bearers include grandchildren: Briana, Dylan, & Brooke. Honorary bearers are all family and friends. The music will be led by Terry Baker. The rosary will be led by Debbe Poitra. The readers are Monte Poitra and Debbe Poitra.

A service to celebrate Joyce's life will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Belcourt, ND. Visitation will begin at 8:00 AM, followed by a rosary service at 9:00 AM, leading up to the funeral mass at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place at St. Ann's Cemetery in Belcourt, ND, after the funeral services. Family and friends are invited to gather and honor her memory. Everyone is welcome to attend a meal at KC Hall in Belcourt, ND, following the burial.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to the Parkview staff, caregivers, and St. Kateri's medical team for their care, love, and support during this time.

Joyce's presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will remain a guiding light in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.