Joyce Lynnette Briese

Joyce Briese, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend passed away surrounded by love after a courageous battle with cancer on November 18th, 2025. Her life began August 29th, 1948, born to Sam and Alma Eslinger in Minot North Dakota. As an only child Joyce treasured her large family and grew up alongside many cousins who were like siblings to her. She learned early the value of hard work while helping her father on the family farm. After earning her degree in education from Moorhead State she moved to Minneapolis, where she met Michael, her soon-to-be husband. They were married in Garrison North Dakota, and together they built a life rooted in dedication, humor, and love. Joyce spent over 30 years working as a sales representative for Lorillard, where she was respected for her hard work ethic and dedication.

Michael and Joyce built their life together in Eden Prairie, MN. This is where their family expanded, and they raised Megan, their daughter. They lived in their home they built from the ground up for over 40 years. They loved the quiet cul-de-sac filled with trees, flowers, and cherished neighbors. When not sitting out on her deck or her front patio you could find her with her family or her friends. She was never more than a phone call away, ready with a listening ear, a warm heart, or a witty remark that could brighten anyone's day.

When Michael became ill, Joyce devoted herself fully to his care, ensuring he could remain in the comfort of their home. After his passing, Joyce found strength, joy, and lifelong companionship with her treasured group of friends from the "Widow Might's." Their friendship blessed her life in immeasurable ways. Together they shared memories, many laughs, long chats, game nights, going to movies, concerts, Bingo, their monthly Widow Might's meetings and their cherished Friday night dinners. These moments brought laughter, comfort, and connection out of loss. These women held a special place in her heart, and she cherished each one of them deeply.

Throughout her year and a half long cancer journey Joyce found comfort in her daughter and her loving little dog Bentley. They both were by her side through it all. From her initial diagnosis to her last breath. Her little fur baby Bentley brought companionship, warm snuggles, and his constant presence brought her peace. His gentle spirit was a true source of emotional support, and she adored him. He loved coming to visit her whether it was at rehab, sneaking into the hospital or his many visits at Friendship Village. Another thing that brought her comfort and joy during this difficult time was wearing special hats. This small expression soon became part of her identity. Her signature blue hat led friends and community members alike to know her fondly as the "blue hat lady." She loved wearing a variety which reflected both her spirit and her unmistakable presence.

Above all, Joyces greatest pride and joy was her family. Especially with her daughter Megan with whom she shared an extraordinary bond as well as her grandchildren. Whether cheering from afar for Mitchell and Blake in NJ or in Eden Prairie for Sophia and Sutter, she never missed a chance to support them. From swim meets, cheer competitions, lacrosse games, and even the coldest hockey rinks Joyce was always there beaming, encouraging, cheering and giving her "Grammy hugs".

In her final year and months, Joyce was blessed by the exceptional care she received at both Abbott Northwestern, Allina Cancer Institute, and Friendship Village. From the staff in the hospital, the rehab unit, to the staff at her Liden neighborhood in skilled care, they treated her with genuine warmth, respect, dignity and compassion. They quickly became like family, offering comfort not only to Joyce but also to those that loved her. For that, Joyce and her family are profoundly grateful.

Joyce will be remembered for her kindness, courage, resilience, her radiant smile, and the way that she made every person she came across feel loved and truly seen. Her life was a testament to devotion, grace, strength, and unwavering love. She leaves behind a legacy that will live in the hearts of her family, dear friends, and all that were blessed to know her.

She is survived by her daughter Megan (Aaron) Soper, stepdaughter Kris (Jim) Sonneborn, beloved grandchildren Sophia and Sutter Soper, Mitchell and Blake Dakin, her family near and far, cherished friends, and her adored Bentley.

We welcome all who loved Joyce to gather with us for a celebration of her life at Friendship Village on January 16th at 1:30-4:30. Light appetizers, deserts, and refreshments will be served. We ask that you please bring a favorite memory of Joyce to add to her memory tree, providing her family with heartfelt memories to look back on. A celebration of life will also be held in North Dakota on her birthday on 8/29/26 for her many friends and relatives that loved her. More to come in the months to come.

Celebration of Life

Friendship Village

(Friendship Hall)

8100 Highwood Drive

Bloomington MN 55438