Joy R. Ellison

Joy R. Ellison (nee Volz), 74, of Wheaton, Illinois passed away on January 15, 2025. She was the beloved mother of Kerry J. Ellison, Chicago, and John R. Ellison (Sara) of North Vernon, Indiana; dear sister of George R. Volz of Chicago Ridge; loving aunt to Steven, Daniel and Thomas Volz, Andrew Ellison, Andrea and Eric Tucker, Margaret Schwanke and Sarah Nelson; cherished friend of many.
Born May 11, 1950 to George and Ruth (Figlo) Volz, Joy grew up alongside her brother George in Evergreen Park, Illinois. She graduated from Evergreen Park High School and Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois, and later obtained her nursing degree from the Lutheran Hospital School of Nursing in Moline, Illinois. During her lifetime Joy was unfailingly optimistic and committed to caring for others as a nurse, educator and friend. After relocating to Wheaton with her husband Bill and children in 1988, Joy held several positions in the health care field. She was especially proud of her teaching experience at Oakton Community College in Des Plaines and her tenure with the health service at College of DuPage. Later in her career Joy served as a nursing coordinator and care team member supporting retired clergy at Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica in Chicago. Her experience there enriched her spiritual life, thanks especially to Fr. Chris Krymski (O.S.M.) and Fr. Michael Guimon (O.S.M.).
Joy found an outlet for her creative side with quilting and sewing. Over the years she delighted friends and family with purses and bags, quilts, holiday decorations and other creations, all of them colorful and bright. She adored her three cats, Georgie, Ruthie and Emma.
A Memorial Gathering will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 12:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M. with Commemorative Service at 1:30 P.M. at Williams-Kampp Funeral Home, 430 E. Roosevelt Rd., Wheaton.