Joyce L. Turner

HALLOWELL – Joyce L. Turner, 79, a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, with her daughters at her side.

Born in Augusta, Dec. 18, 1945, to the late Armand and Hortense (Lagassie) Lajoie, Joyce lived a life marked by kindness, creativity, and an unwavering devotion to her family and those around her.

She dedicated many years to nurturing and guiding young minds; first with her daughters and, later, through her work running a day care. Joyce touched countless lives with her patience, warmth, and guiding spirit. Her selfless nature left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

A gifted artist, Joyce found joy and expression through her stained-glass work. Her home studio was a haven of color and creativity, and her stunning pieces continue to bring light and beauty to the homes and hearts of those fortunate enough to have them. Her artistry was not just a craft, but a legacy – each piece a reflection of her generous heart and vibrant soul.

Joyce will be remembered for her giving nature, her creativity that came through in more than just her art, her sense of humor, and her deep love for her family.

She was a woman of unwavering determination and fierce independence, with a tenacious spirit that guided her through every season of life. Whether faced with a daunting challenge or an exciting new project, she met each with courage, resilience, and an unshakable sense of purpose. Her adventurous soul never shied away from the unknown – she embraced it, inspired by the belief that anything was possible with grit and heart. This legacy lives on in the women of her family, who carry forward her boldness, her strength, and her fearless embrace of life’s possibilities.

She had a boundless compassion for all living things, offering her care freely to family, friends, strangers, and animals alike. If someone was in need – whether it was a warm coat, a kind word, or a place to rest -she gave without hesitation, never expecting anything in return. Her generosity was quiet but powerful, and one of her favorite ways to show it was through food. She was always ready with a meal, a snack, or a treat – often more than anyone could possibly eat – because, to her, feeding others was one of the purest forms of love and comfort.

She created a world of warmth and inspiration, not just in her home but in the lives of everyone she encountered.

Joyce was predeceased by her parents and a brother, Patrick Lajoie.

She is survived by her husband, Harvey Frederick Turner; her daughters, Tammy (Seann) Scanlon and Erin (Joel) Allumbaugh; and her adored grandchildren, Avery (Patrick) Sullivan and Grayson Allumbaugh, all of whom were the light of her life. She is also survived by her brothers, Norman Lajoie, Roland Lajoie, Paul Lajoie and William Lajoie; and sisters, Patricia Cunningham and Arlene Prescott, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Joyce will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A special thank you to Karen Blodgett and the staff of the Memory Care unit at Woodlands Senior Living, Hallowell. The care, compassion and warmth each of you brought to our mother’s life is greatly appreciated.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 30, from 4-7 p.m., at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests honoring Joyce’s memory by supporting a local charity that is meaningful to you.