Evangeline “Joyce” Staples -Oct. 26, 2021

Evangeline “Joyce” Staples, age 94, passed away peacefully October 26, 2021, following a stroke two months earlier. She was born September 29, 1927, in Lansford, North Dakota to Albert and Lenora Foster. Joyce married Frank Manley Staples in Boston, Massachusetts on October 30, 1947, following his service as a combat engineer in the US Army in Europe during World War II. Both Joyce and Frank graduated from Jamestown High School and returned there after their marriage to attend Jamestown College before settling in the Twin Cities.

Joyce was a loving and devoted mother to their three children, Cynthia, Alan, and David. After they were grown, she worked in the fabrics and sewing department of Dayton’s department store, a natural fit given her lifelong passion for fashion and sewing. In retirement, Joyce and Frank pursued their interest in lapidary. They traveled throughout the US and Canada in search of gemstones they would use in the jewelry they crafted. Their jewelry was sold at stores, art and craft shows, and as commissioned work.

Joyce is survived by her children, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Joyce’s funeral service will be at White Funeral Chapel in Apple Valley, MN on Wednesday, November 3, 2021, beginning with visitation at 10:30am and Chapel service at 11:30am. Joyce will be laid to rest next to Frank at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Burial service will be at 1:00pm. Flowers or other remembrances may be sent to White Chapel or donations made to the Salvation Army. Condolences: www.whitefuneralhomes.com