Joyce Elaine Chandler, age 82, of Sedro-Woolley, Washington passed away October 13, 2023. She was born August 31, 1941, in Madison, Minnesota to Theodore and Helen (Chester) Laremore.
Joyce’s family moved to Eugene, Oregon following World War Two. She graduated from Willamette High School and later attended Oregon State University. Joyce married Rod Chandler in 1963 and the couple celebrated their sixtieth wedding anniversary on August 3rd. Joyce worked tirelessly to support Rod as he completed his education at Oregon State University.
The couple’s son, John was born in 1970 and daughter, Amanda arrived in 1972. Joyce worked outside the home over the years but devoted most of her time to raising the two children and volunteering. She was an active participant in her husband’s successful campaigns for the State House of Representatives and the United States House of Representatives. During this time, she gave a tremendous amount of effort and time to the Breast Cancer Society as a survivor of that cancer. Joyce was also a devoted grandmother. It is her dedication and commitment to family that enabled her husband, son, daughter and four grandchildren to go much further in their own journeys.
While in Washington, DC, Joyce served as Treasurer of the Congressional Club, a bipartisan organization for spouses of members of Congress. Joyce loved to travel; she and Rod visited Australia numerous times, since their daughter lives there, and they traveled to Europe, South America and Asia
Joyce is survived by her husband, Rod; daughter, Amanda; four grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Arlene and the Chandler’s son, John who died of cancer in 2019.
Joyce loved trees. Nothing pleased her more than a camping trip to the mountains or a ride through one of the beautiful forests of the Pacific Northwest. The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Arbor Day Foundation, an organization that plants trees.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00, Saturday, November 4, 2023, at the Central United Methodist Church, 1013 Polte Road, Sedro-Woolley, Reverend Rilla Barrett presiding. Share your memories of Joyce and sign the online guest register.
I was terribly sad to hear about the passing of Mrs. Chandler. And to then just learn that John died in 2019. John was my best childhood friend. He will be missed.
Rod, Amy and the rest of the family. Please accept my sincere condolences for your immeasurable loss. I have only fond memories of your family and the times we shared in Kirkland and Maltby. Joyce was a graceful lady, both sweet and thoughtful. Rest in paradise Joyce and John.