Joy was born in 1966 in Washington, D.C., to Elizabeth and Victor Wiggert, who were both Wisconsin natives. She graduated from Miami Palmetto Senior High in 1984 and then returned to the family's ancestral roots to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison. There she earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's degree in rehabilitation psychology. In doing so she followed in the footsteps of her parents, Elizabeth and Victor, who graduated from UW-Madison in chemistry and meteorology, respectively; her grandmother, Lillian (Scheuber) Cooper, who graduated with a Ph.D. in library science; and her grandfather, Delmer Cooper, who was a professor of genetics. Following her graduation, Joy stayed in Madison, working first as a job placement counselor at Education & Training Assoc. and most recently as an information and assistance specialist for the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) within Dane County's Department of Human Services.

Joy was a member of the First Unitarian Society of Madison, where she sang in the choir for many years. She enjoyed birdwatching, hiking, traveling and visiting preserves / parks throughout the U.S., listening to music, and was an avid reader. She especially loved relaxing at home by the fireplace with a good book with her kitties, Cleo and LuLu, draped over her for added warmth. Joy's true gift was building friendships with everyone around her. Whether it was marching band, playing softball, working on associations and committees, collaborating with co-workers, singing in choir, engaging with friends' children, or having tea with the Tea Dames, she shared her beautiful spirit, hugs, laughter, and love with everyone around her.

Joy is survived by her brother, Jeremy "Jerry" Wiggert of Slidell, La.; her uncle, Robert "Bob" Cooper of La Quinta, Calif.; and many devoted friends. The family would like to thank the staff of Agrace HospiceCare for providing Joy with such supportive care over the past two months, which provided a peaceful and comfortable haven with great views of the birds visiting the feeders outside her window.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in the spring at the First Unitarian Society of Madison.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to First Unitarian Society - Madison Music Program (https://fusmadison.org), Gilda's Club Madison (https://www.gildasclubmadison.org) or The Nature Conservancy (www.nature.org). Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

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Published by Madison.com on Nov. 21, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Joy Wiggert

Sponsored by Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison/Monona.

3 Entries

Michelle K.

November 22, 2021

Terribly sorry to hear this news. I volunteered with Joy for the annual Race for the Cure and always had a blast spending time with her! She will be dearly missed. Prayers to the Wiggert family and friends.

Larnzetta M.

November 22, 2021

Her name said it all. Joy brought such beauty to the world. Her dedication to work, family, and friends elevated the experience of life. She will be greatly missed. My condolences to the family.

Julie G.

November 21, 2021

I remember spending time with Joy as a very small child at Fairglade's School.
I remember Joy's very kind parents, and their welcoming me in their home.
We were at Fairglade together, and then lost touch as many children do.
I've often thought about Joy & her family over the many years.
I later marched in Palmetto's band with her, and I regret not spending more time to know her again.
Joy was a very bright, kind and authentic person. She was a big advocate for music and the band community and band family.
I was so saddened to have read of her passing this morning.
Sending my heartfelt gratitude for the privilege of knowing Joy.
Every comfort and many blessings to her loved ones and the Wiggert family.

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