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Joy Rae Reichenberg passed away peacefully on March 17th, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on July 13th, 1975, in Gering, Nebraska, Joy carried her Midwestern roots with her throughout her life. She later made her home in Rockwell, North Carolina, where she built a life defined by compassion, resilience, and dedication to others.
Joy’s calling to care for others began as a massage therapist, bringing comfort and healing to those in her care. She later expanded on that gift through nursing, a profession that reflected her generous spirit and deep empathy. She cared for her patients with kindness, dignity, and genuine compassion, leaving a lasting impression on countless lives. Her excellence in nursing was recognized with the prestigious DAISY Award, a testament to the difference she made in the lives of those she served.
Above all, Joy was devoted to her family. She found her greatest happiness in spending time with her loved ones, cherishing every moment. Her strength, warmth, and sense of humor brought joy and comfort to those around her, and her love will continue to be felt for generations.
She is survived by her husband, Tod Ellis; her sons, Collin Reichenberg and Bradley Kuhns; her daughter, Mackenzie Brodie (Jacob Brodie); her grandson, Lochlan Brodie; her mother, Laura Jankowski; her father, Monte Reichenberg (Susan Reichenberg); her sisters, Michelle Stanley and Tammy Reichenberg.
Joy will be remembered for her boundless compassion, quiet strength, and the love she so freely gave. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A celebration of Joy’s life will be held on Sunday, April 19th, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 320 North Main Street, China Grove, NC. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor her remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joy’s honor to CancerCare. This organization provides resources to families who are facing the many challenges that follow a cancer diagnosis.
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