Joyce Melby 11/20/2025

Joyce Ann Melby, age 81, of New Richmond, Wisconsin, died in her home on November 20, 2025, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Joyce was born on November 25, 1943, in Chetek, Wisconsin, to Terry and Helen Gotham, and she grew up in a family rooted in love and community.

A proud graduate of Chetek High School, Joyce pursued her passion for nursing at Methodist Hospital in Madison, where she began her journey of empathy and care in 1965. On August 28 of that same year, Joyce married the love of her life, Neal Melby. This union set the stage for a rich and fulfilling life together as they navigated the joys and challenges of family and profession.

The couple initially moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where Neal completed his internship in family medicine and they welcomed their first son, Gregory.  Their journey took them to Sisseton, where Neal served as a doctor on an Indian reservation, welcoming their  second son, Kevin, into the world. The family would continue to grow, with Michael and Matthew joining them in New Richmond before a move to La Crosse, Wisconsin, and ultimately returning back to New Richmond in 1982, where they would ultimately enjoy their retirement years.

Joyce was not just a devoted wife and loving mother; she was the heart of her family. She enjoyed spending time with family – hosting weekly family meals and attending her grandchildren’s events and activities.

While supporting Neal in his medical practice, she also worked part-time at Holy Family Hospital and Joyce managed the day to day operation of the family crop and beef cattle farm.  She was engaged deeply with organizations that enriched her community. As a 4-H mentor, chairwoman of the La Leche League, and an active participant at the New Richmond United Methodist Church, Joyce dedicated her time to nurturing the lives of others and teens, some who still consider her a mother figure. She took joy in chaperoning camps and trips, fostering growth and adventure among young members of her congregation.

An avid horse enthusiast, Joyce’s passion for endurance riding was a reflection of her adventurous spirit and her love of traveling that took her to various countries throughout the world. She also generously served her community through Meals on Wheels and was known for her commitment to blood donation, contributing over two gallons throughout her life. A lover of games, she found joy in playing bridge and shared many afternoons with friends around the card table, forming bonds that would last a lifetime.

Joyce is survived by her beloved husband, Neal; her sons, Gregory (Kirsten), Kevin (Christine), Michael (Michele), and Matthew (Kelly); and her cherished grandchildren, Raine, Maddi (Stefan Horvath), Jeremiah, Lydia, Luke, Carter, Gianna (Nick Cork), Ciara, Chayden (Elise Kobeck), and Max Melby. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Evelyn Gotham, several nieces, nephews, and an extended family of friends who will forever remember her warmth and spirit.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Terry and Helen Gotham; her infant brother, Clifford; brothers Jim (Nancy) and Carson Gotham; sister Mary (Ray) Burrough; and adopted sister Patsy (Paul) Schmitt.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11:00 am at the New Richmond United Methodist Church (209 E 2nd St) in New Richmond, where family and friends gathered to celebrate her remarkable life. A luncheon followed the service, allowing all who knew her to share their stories and fond memories. Visitation took place on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4-7 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S Knowles Ave) in New Richmond, and also on Saturday from 10-11 am at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorial contributions to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, St. Croix Fair Plex, New Richmond United Methodist Church, the New Richmond Heritage Association, or St. Croix Hospice.

Joyce Ann Melby will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched. Arrangements are being handled by Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

Click here to watch the recording of Joyce’s Memorial Service