Vicky Lynn Joy

Vicky Lynn Joy, age 71, of Faribault, Minnesota, passed away at her home on Sunday, December 7, surrounded by loved ones.

A Celebration of Life will take place at the Faribault Elks Lodge #1166 on Sunday, January 11, at 2:00pm, with a brief service beginning at 2:30pm.

Vicky was born on November 23, 1954, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to James and Donna (May) Joy. She spent her very happy childhood living with her parents and younger brother, Larry Joy, in Bloomington, MN, and graduated from Kennedy High School in 1972.

In 1974, Vicky joined the United States Air Force, where she became one of the first female jet engine mechanics. She spent her life working in various STEM fields and broke through many glass ceilings, paving the way for future generations.

Vicky first studied at Normandale Community College, which she attended with her mother, Donna Joy. They enjoyed learning and taking classes together. She later studied at Golden Valley Lutheran College and the University of Minnesota, from which she graduated in 1983 with a focus in aerospace engineering. While attending the University of Minnesota Institute of Technology, Vicky was part of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. She was a lifelong learner, regularly auditing college courses at other institutions and watching online lectures from around the world in her free time.

Vicky worked for the Defense Logistics Agency within the Department of Defense for 35 years, receiving numerous awards for excellence and commitment.

Vicky married Tim Brown on June 6, 1998, at Best Point Resort in Waterville, MN. Vicky and Tim were best friends, and together they built a life of travel and adventure. Following their marriage, they spent eight years living in Germany, devoting every possible moment to traveling across various European cities and countries. Vicky and Tim travelled the world, making memories and friendships wherever they went. Whether they were island hopping in Greece, deep sea fishing in Mexico, or simply “down at the lake” in Waterville, Vicky and Tim always knew how to have a good time.

Along with travel, Vicky loved all things related to science or science fiction and helped organize some of the first sci-fi fan conventions in the state. She was always excited to try new things, from crafting and gardening to grilling and participating in activities like synchronized swimming, karate, and Taekwondo. Vicky also enjoyed playing darts and participated in local leagues for many years. She was a proud member of the American Legion and Faribault Elks Lodge #1166.

Vicky will be remembered for her intelligence, passion, and above all, her humor and love for life and the people around her. She was loved and admired by everyone she met and will be greatly missed.

Vicky is survived by her brother, Larry (Jan) Joy of Delano, MN; nieces Janelle Joy of Eden Prairie and Lindsay (Colton) Joy Bryant of Montrose; great-niece and nephew, Larkin and Wesley Bryant; and dear friends, James (Jess) Rutherford, Phoenix Rutherford, and Jadyn (Jacob) Navaira of Faribault, Minnesota.