Joy L. Brasseur

Joy Brasseur, 70, passed away on September 23, 2026, in Vanderbilt, MI.

She is survived by her husband Neil Brasseur of Vanderbilt, her son Nathan Brasseur, and daughters Jessica Slater, Heather Kuss, Kelsi Brasseur, and Arianna Fennell (foster), her brother Kelly, and sisters Wendy and Cindy, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was the loving grandma of eight and great mamma of five. Joy is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Carol MacDonald.

Joy was born in 1956, in Bay City, Michigan. She and her family moved to Gaylord when she was around the age of 12. She met the love of her life in 1971 and married him in 1973. Her adventurous side was brought to life by accompanying him to Germany, Minnesota, Maryland, Montana and eventually back to Michigan.

Joy had a love of crafting, painting ceramics, sewing, playing the piano, and baking. She was great at making a little go a long way and making sure the family was always taken care of. Her compassion spread throughout her life by taking in many foster children and exemplifying that blood isn't the only way family is formed. She was always willing to listen. She had the unique way of knowing when listening was needed over giving advice. She was firm, but fair. She had a great sense of humor with a contagious laugh. She was tiny but mighty and could be quite feisty. However, when life got hard, she took things with grace. If you knew her, you know her love of unicorns and, to the dismay of Neil, all shades of purple. She passed on her love of animals (having dogs and cats throughout her life), and growing things in her yard to her children. She was active in the community by serving as a deputy treasurer for Corwith Township for many years. She would attribute these strengths to being saved by a gracious and loving God and being an active member of the Pigeon River Baptist Church.

In lieu of a formal service, a private celebration of life will be held at a later date to be determined.

Memorial donations can be made in Joy's name to New Life Pregnancy Resource Center at 705 S. Otsego Ave., Gaylord (989)732-1626.

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