Joy Elizabeth Harness

Joy Elizabeth Harness obituary

Joy Elizabeth Harness

Joy Harness Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Starks & Menchinger Chapel - Saint Joseph on Nov. 10, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Joy Elizabeth Harness, 85, of Stevensville, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph.

Joy was born on February 5, 1940, to Marjorie (Kelm) Randall and Charles Randall in Benton Harbor, the eldest of four children. She graduated from Trinity Lutheran School and St. Joseph High School. Joy was baptized, confirmed and married at Trinity Lutheran Church.

On August 15, 1959, Joy married the love of her life and had three beautiful sons. Known for her welcoming nature, Joy was a people person. Always ready to give a great smile and hug.

Professionally, she dedicated over 35 years in the retail industry, including 28 years with Sears. Joy wouldn't want you to be sad, but to smile and remember "it's A Wonderful World".

Joy is survived by her husband of 66 years, Jason; son, Brian (Sherry) Harness; grandchildren, Bret Harness, Lauren Harness and Aliah Bannerman; step-grandchildren, Jessica Paradise and Deanna Paradise; great-grandsons, Jerrick Harness, Ryker Harness, Kolsen, Bannerman, Iverson Bannerman and sisters, Pamela (John) Nolta and Kathryn (Jim) Geipel. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marjorie and Charles Randall; sons, Todd Harness, Brett Harness and brother, Robert Randall.

Cremation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, St. Joseph. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Joy's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Joy Harness's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Joy Harness's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?