Obituary of Linda Susan Joyce

Linda Susan Joyce died on 13 Dec., 2021, in Duluth at age 69. Linda was born on 25 May 1952, in St. Paul, MN, the daughter of Joseph William Joyce of WI and MN and Violet Alvide Evanson, daughter of Norwegian immigrants.

Linda married Douglas Hugh McKillop and welcomed son Daniel Jon McKillop on 26 April 1972, in Duluth. A 1970 graduate of Duluth Central High, Linda was a long-time employee of the St. Louis County Health Department.

Linda suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, and our family offers special thanks to the caring staff at Marywood, Essentia Hospice, and her long-time helper and companion Lexi, of Home Instead.

Linda is survived by her beloved cat Kitty, son Dan McKillop, two much loved granddaughters Sophie and Averie McKillop, former husband (always friend) Doug McKillop, her sister Arlene [Gene] Smitke of Florida, brother-in-law Dennis Pfeiffer, sister-in-law Darlene Joyce, as well as nieces and nephews –Laurie [Steve] Hurd; David [Laena] Pfeiffer; Jill [Jay] Beal, all of Minnesota; and Karl [Sara] Joyce of Chicago Il, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and others who love her.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, brother Edwin Joyce, sister Caroline Pfeiffer, and longtime special friend Doug Berg. Linda was a member of the Anchor Point Church in Duluth for the past several years, and grew up attending Trinity Lutheran Church in Duluth’s East Hillside, where much of her family lived.

A nearly lifelong vegetarian, Linda enjoyed the outdoors, and had a special love for the furry critters who lived there. Linda will be remembered for her cheerfulness, love of Jesus, love of children, love of music, love of adventure, love of family, and love of animals in all shapes and sizes. Linda had fond memories of regular trips to Hawaii with her Mother Violet, along with many grand adventures with her sister “Cookie”.

Celebration of life TBD. Arrangements were handled by First Memorial Funeral Chapel, 4100 Grand Ave, Duluth, MN 55807