Joyce Patricia Reilly

With profound sadness yet grateful hearts for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Joyce Patricia Reilly on February 12, 2026 at New Perspectives Senior Care, Sun Prairie, WI. Born on December 23, 1923, in Milwaukee,WI. She was the daughter of the late Federico “Fred” Sebastian Jordan and Alvera Marie Benedict.

Joyce’s journey began in Milwaukee, where she attended high school at Holy Angels Academy and later graduated from Marquette University.

In 1947, Joyce married the love of her life, Larry Reilly. Together, they built a home and raised six children: sons Jay (Peg) Reilly, St. Paul, MN, Kevin (Doreen) Reilly, Oregon, WI, and daughters, Mary Dwyer, Madison, WI, Ann (Mike) Joyce,Brookfield, WI, Cathy (Brad) Rostowfske, West Bend, WI and Beth (Dan Burling) Reilly, Bloomington, MN. Joyce was also a cherished grandmother to 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

After dedicating her early years to raising her children, she pursued a career as a social worker with Catholic Social Services, where she specialized in adoption services for over two decades. Her dedication to her work was matched by her warmth, humor, and the friendship she shared with her coworkers and clients.

Joyce loved to laugh and she loved funny people, in particular Laurel and Hardy, Dick Van Dyke, Carol Burnett and Ray Romano. She had a widespread and irreverent sense of humor, the figure of a dancer and a cute face that was a canvas for mugging and funny faces.

Though her early dreams were to become a dancer, Joyce put her energy in sports, excelling in fencing as a teenager and as swimmer into her 90s. Her zest for life extended to travel, which took her across the United States, Italy, Spain, and Ireland. Her compassionate heart led her on two missions to Cuba, where she delivered medical supplies.

Joyce was filled with energy, humor, and resilience. Her laughter was contagious. Her legacy is one of love, service, and enduring friendships.

Preceded in death by her husband, Larry, her parents, and her son-in-law, James Dwyer. Joyce now rests in peace, reunited with those she dearly missed.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her caregivers and Agrace for their friendship and support during Joyce’s final years.

A private observance will be held in Milwaukee. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to Catholic Social Services, continuing her mission of love and care for others.

Joyce lived a life of love and laughter. Her spirit lives on in the memories of all who knew her.