Joy Ann Browne, 77

Joy Ann Browne, 77, of Rathdrum, Idaho, passed away unexpectedly March 5, 2016, at Hospice House in Hayden, Idaho.

Joy was born July 6, 1938, to Herbert and Maxine Barnett in Watonga, Okla. She was married June 4, 1956, to James E. Browne in Tehachapi, Calif. They moved to North Idaho in 1974 where they raised three children. Joy worked at the Hayden Lake Country Club for 40 years, from 1974 until she retired in October 2014.

Joy was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother whose infectious smile and laugh will be greatly missed by all. She enjoyed arts and crafts of all sorts and had decor for every season. She was also an active member of her church and enjoyed working in her greenhouse and tending to her chickens. Joy was a wonderful cook and enjoyed many family barbecues and holiday gatherings. Joy lived for her friends and family and will be dearly missed by all who were lucky enough to know her.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Jim; son David Browne; two daughters, Cheryl Zachary and Carol Browne; six grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and brothers Charles H. Barnett and Franklin H. Barnett. Joy is preceded in death by her father and mother, Herbert and Maxine Barnett.

Please join us for a memorial service to be held at noon Saturday, March 12, 2016, at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 13541 W. Highway 53, Rathdrum. A celebration of her life will follow the service also at the church.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Joy’s online memorial and sign her guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.