Helen Joyce Hanson

“The cat got her” is a line from the movie Paulie that Joyce always got a kick out of. It is said by a parrot referring to a woman who died. Joyce came into the world in Great Falls on February 22, 1929, and exited on April 12, 2024. Truly a Montana product, she graduated from Great Falls High School, attended Montana State University, and spent the majority of her adult life in Billings. While she had several clerical positions in her working life, her favorite job was being a mother. A fierce protector and defender of her children, they were her pride and joy: Kim, Kerry (Nancy), and Deborah (Dale). Tole painting, decorating eggs, crafts, crossword puzzles, trying new recipes, and singing were other activities that brought her delight. She loved wildflowers, George Clooney, Disneyworld, socializing, and homemade caramels. Enjoyment was found in playing cards, traveling, reading, spending time with family, and laughing. Two things that she hated were going to the dentist and people who mistreated animals. If there was an international competition for worrying, she would have been a champion! Her spouse of 55 years, H.S. Sonny Hanson, predeceased her. Those she left behind include her children; a grandchild, Severin; three great-grandchildren, Gwynevere, Perrin, and Avienda; three sisters, Margie, Judy, and Susan; one brother, Roger; and many nieces and nephews. The cat got her at the age of 95 in Great Falls and she will be missed. At her request there will be no services. If you want to make a memorial in her name, the animal shelter would be a great choice.