William Brady Joy

William (Bill) Brady Joy September 17, 1938 – February 12, 2026

William “Bill” Brady Joy was born in Portland, Oregon, to Brady and Dorothy Joy on September 17, 1938. The first of three children, Bill grew up on NE Wygant Street, where he enjoyed a happy childhood and formed friendships that endured throughout his life.

He graduated from Benson High School in 1956, focusing on automotive studies, and later attended Clackamas Community College for environmental studies. Bill was among the first in Oregon to receive certification to perform DEQ work. He approached every task — no matter how small — with precision, integrity, and an unwavering work ethic. He retired in 1997.

From 1964 to 1997, Bill was the proud co-owner and operator of Hal Jones Automotive on NE Fremont Street in Portland. A gifted mechanic, he embodied the rare balance of true “gear-head” and Renaissance man. He loved building race cars, restoring motorcycles and automobiles, and participating in the racing community. His business was built on honesty and excellence, earning him a fiercely loyal following and lasting respect.

Earlier in life, Bill was married to Susan Hanset, with whom he welcomed four children.

He later found enduring love and partnership with his wife, Susanne “Sue” Stegmiller. Together they shared a rich life filled with travel — including memorable trips to England — restoring Sue’s beloved MG, evenings at performances with Chamber Music Northwest and the Portland Opera, and scuba diving in St. Croix and the Puget Sound.

As a younger man, Bill was an avid racing enthusiast. In retirement, he became a member of the Harley Owners Group and the American Motorcyclist Association. He loved motorcycle touring, British television mysteries, beautifully prepared meals, working in his garden, and happily tinkering in his shop. He was meticulously tidy and carried himself with pride.

Bill never met a stranger. Conversation came easily to him, and many friends found comfort in being taken under his wing. In his final days, when asked about his favorite memories, he spoke fondly of his early years of car racing, motorcycle touring, treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren and mostly of his everyday life with Sue.

He served with pride in the National Guard and held deep respect for American veterans.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sue; his sister, Susie Price; his four children: Elizabeth Howlan (Wade), Brady Joy (Kathleen), Benjamin Joy (Kelli), and Leah Johnston (Jeff); seven grandchildren: Nicholas Roberti, Chelsea Labenske (Howlan), Hailey Howlan, Will Joy, Adam Joy, Andrew Joy, and Grace Joy; four great-grandchildren; and his nieces Jeanne McConnell and Katie Joy, and nephew Matthew Joy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Veterans Motorcycle Honor Guard.

He moved through life with intensity and purpose, leaving an unmistakable impression on those who knew him.

A service will be held March 14, 2026 at Rose City Cemetery