Joyce J. Lund, 70, passed peacefully on Oct. 2 in the comfort of her home and surrounded by her beloved ones. The daughter of the late Rosario (Russ) Prestipino and Giovanna (Jenny) D’Angelico, Joyce was born on March 12, 1943, in Paterson, N.J. Joyce and her former husband, George Strother III, raised their four children in Denville, N.J. Joyce moved to St. Thomas, U.S.V.I., where she shared the rich culture and beauty of the islands with Phil “Flip” Lund. Joyce and Flip moved next to Center Lovell, Maine, embracing the forests and trails of that state. Joyce lived her last years in New Hampshire in a home designed by her and built by her sons. Joyce brought a tangible feeling of home to every house she lived in. She was a vibrant member of every community she embraced.
The ocean was a sense of joy and peace to Joyce. She spent much time on the water, scuba diving, teaching water classes, sailing, and later, on the lakes, kayaking. Her love of nature inspired beautiful gardens and outdoor living spaces in all of her homes. She surrounded herself with handmade beauty, contributing with hand-hooked rugs and gorgeous quilts of her own make and design. Above all, Joyce’s grandchildren were a source of great love and pride for her. Her grace and courage, as she neared the end of her life, was a sense of comfort and wonder to all those who surrounded her. She will be missed.
Joyce is survived by her four children: George Strother IV and his wife Karen; Wendy Perrault and her husband Brent; Amy Gray and her husband Brian; and Philip Strother and his partner Ashley Bullard. She is also survived by nine grandchildren: Julia and Michael Strother, Austin and Daniel Perrault, Madyson, Shelby and Brian Gray, and Willow and Raven Strother. Lastly, she is survived by her dog Shanti, whom she held so dearly.
A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held at her home at 401 Little Pond Road, Center Sandwich, N.H. at 3 p.m. on Oct. 19, with an outdoor ceremony beginning at 4 p.m.
