Joyce A. Kaelber

Joyce Ann Kaelber, 80, of Quincy, passed away at 9:37 pm Friday, October 3, 2025 at Barry Health Care and Senior Living in Barry, IL.

Joyce was born August 5, 1945, in Quincy, IL to Walter "Buck" James Kaelber Sr. and Alyce (Ward) Kaelber.

Survivors include her brother, Walter James Kaelber Jr., also known as "Buck", of Quincy; her nieces and nephews, Jack Kaelber (Elaine) of Winfield, MO, Jill Monken (Cliff) of Lombard, IL, Dave Kaelber (Carla) of Quincy, and Darla Fesler (Tony) of Kinderhook, IL; and many loving great nieces, nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Judy Kaelber; one sister in-law, Virginia Kaelber; one special uncle, Sonny Ward; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Joyce grew up in Quincy, where she attended Quincy High School, graduating in 1963. She then pursued her interest in beauty and style by attending beauty school, which led to a 61-year career as a beautician. Joyce graced several salons with her talent, including Key Beauty Salon, Mr. Robert's, and most recently, A Cut Above, where she was not just a stylist but a confidante and friend to many.

Beyond her professional life, Joyce was a woman of diverse interests and a generous spirit. She had an abiding love for dogs, sharing her life with numerous poodles, schnauzers, and yorkies, and was always the first to offer pet-sitting services to friends and family. Her love for animals was matched by her passion for shopping, whether for the latest fashion or the week's groceries.

Her giving nature shone brightly during the holidays as she took great joy in buying Christmas presents for underprivileged children, meticulously fulfilling their wishlists and wrapping each gift with care. Joyce's creativity was not limited to her professional work; she also enjoyed crafting, from making wreaths and sweatshirts to painting woodworking projects created by her uncle. If the TV was on, she was likely watching HGTV or the Hallmark Channel. An avid collector, Joyce's home was adorned with an extensive array of salt and pepper shakers and Elvis memorabilia, a testament to her love for the King of Rock and Roll.

Family gatherings were a highlight for Joyce, and she was particularly fond of organizing Easter egg hunts for her nieces and nephews, delighting in their excitement as they discovered cash-filled eggs. Her love for her family was evident in every interaction, and she leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories.

Friends and Family are invited to Joyce's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.

A Funeral Ceremony will be at 10:00 am Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy.  Pastor Jo Ann Ruff will officiate. Burial will follow at Greenmount in Quincy, IL. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink or blue, as those were Joyce's favorite colors.

Pallbearers will be Jack Kaelber, Dave Kaelber, Jackson Kaelber, Cliff Monken, Tony Fesler, and Jay Sunderland.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Quincy Humane Society.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.