Luylla Jo "Joy" Claar, 77

Luylla Jo “Joy” Claar, 76, of Charlo, passed into the Lord’s presence Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, at St. Luke Hospital in Ronan of natural causes.

Joy was born in Portland, Ore., on Feb. 13, 1947, to Lyall and Georgia Florida “Jo” Spooner. In 1955, she was baptized when she was 8 years old and later accepted Jesus Christ as her savior in 1970. In the following years, she was baptized by immersion.

Being an avid learner, Joy graduated from Missoula County High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in education, and earned a master’s degree in theological studies. If one were to compile all of her copious notes over decades of study, she would likely have one, if not two, PhDs. She also became a certified chaplain.

Joy’s passion for study was matched by her indefatigable prayer life along with a deep devotion to worship through music and dance. Joy fellowshipped and served across denominational lines and crossed several state lines to be a part of various ministries. She loved the Lord her God with all her heart, all her mind, all her strength, and all her soul.

Joy loved riding horses, singing, playing various musical instruments, dancing, painting, drawing, and supporting her children in their activities and studies. She was vehemently independent and passionately served those dependent upon her. From Head Start children to the adult clients she cared for up to her passing, she served them as if they were family.

Joy was married to James J. Claar for 34 years, with whom she raised two sons: Adam Beau (and Rebekah) Claar and Aaron Joe (and Jenni) Claar. She is survived by them and her grandchildren: Elizabeth, Annalece, Samantha and Aaden Claar.

The family is sincerely grateful to the staff at Cedar Creek Integrated Health, and St. Luke Hospital, especially those who supported both her and her family during her passing. Also, a special thank you to the Sheriff’s Department and ambulance service staff, who aided in her initial treatment.

Her body was laid to rest at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in the Ronan Cemetery at 46727 N. Foothills Dr., Ronan, followed by a time of remembrance at Cedar Creek Integrated Health at 11 Main SE, Ronan, with friends and family. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.