Ruth L. Joy died peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2010, in Kalispell, at the age of 86. She was born on July 2, 1924, in Big Sandy, to Edward G. and Sophia (Neste) Hansen. She grew up in Big Sandy and graduated from Big Sandy High School. She later attended Northern State Teachers College in Havre where she earned a teaching certificate. She went on to teach in elementary and music in Libby and then in Whitefish in 1947, and taught third grade for many years. Ruth married John Jack Joy in June 1950. Ruth enjoyed music; she had a beautiful singing voice and led the choir at Christ Lutheran Church in Whitefish for many years. She was a fantastic cook and entertainer. She also enjoyed golf, reading, playing bridge and traveling. Ruth is survived by her stepchildren, Nancy Picucci of Florence, Ariz., and Sandra and Dewey Hartman of Whitefish; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three nieces; and two nephews. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, John Jack Joy; and four brothers. Visitation will be held from noon to 6 p.m. today at Austin Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2, at Whitefish Cemetery, with memorial services following at 2 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church in Whitefish. Contributions are suggested to Christ Lutheran Church Building Program or Immanuel Lutheran Home Building Program.