Joyce Barner

Joyce Joann (Hamlin) Barner 

December 13, 1939 - August 29, 2022 

Joyce Barner, 82, was born in Buhl, Idaho to Goldie and Melvin Jaramillo. To have the word “joy” in her name was apt, as she exuded joy and humor- even during tough times. Her contagious smile was framed by what was voted “best lips” in high school. After her brother Melvin joined the Air Force, he brought his best friend Fred Hamlin home when they were on a break from Air Force pilot school. It didn’t take long for Fred to propose to Joyce, and they married in October 1958.

Joyce was the fourth of five siblings: Melvin, Anita, Ruth, Joyce, and Ramona. They predeceased Joyce, causing great sadness for her, as she was very close to them. Joyce grew up in poverty and experienced prejudice as a child and as a young mother. The stories of her challenges taught her children valuable life lessons.

After Joyce became an Air Force officer’s wife, she lived on base in Laredo TX, Spokane WA, then overseas to West Germany, and England. Joyce took the many relocations over the years in stride. She had three children, Mikell, Janet, and Peter. She was a member of The Officer’s Wives Club and traveled all over the world, including to Greece, Austria, Spain and many other destinations. After 20 years of service, the family settled in Enumclaw, WA. A few years later, Fred perished in an accident in 1979.

As a result, Joyce became a single mom with no job skills or formal training. With fierce determination, she overcame many obstacles to provide for her family. Over the years, she held several jobs she loved- including cashier, hair stylist, and as a Special Educational Assistant.

She met Blair Barner in 1987 and he became her husband of over thirty years. Blair and Joyce ran North Fork Survivors gift shop near Mt. St. Helen’s for several decades, selling souvenirs and collectibles. In 2017, they sold the business. Five years later, Joyce lost her beloved Blair in June 2021. 

Throughout her life, Joyce was youthful and exuberant. She hosted bridge tournaments. She was an avid bowler. She joined a CanCan dance group. She was a Brownie leader and a Cub Scout den mother. She was caring and generous and would light up any room she entered. Joyce passed away quietly on August 29th surrounded by family. We are deeply saddened to lose our dear Mother. She has left her spirit of kindness, humor, and true joy of life which we will carry with us always. 

Joyce is survived by sons Mikell (Sindi) Hamlin, Peter (Monica) Hamlin and daughter Janet (Susan) Hamlin; stepchildren Ross (Kris) Barner, Ben (Andrea) Barner and Kelli (Meredith) Barner; her grandchildren Shauna, Tyler, Nancy, Tobias, Britton, Brady, Brooke, Ellen, and Kate; and her five great-grandchildren. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022 from 11am-12pm at Calvary Community Church, 15116 Gary St E., Sumner, WA 98390

We encourage anyone who wants to honor Joyce to consider a donation to The Alzheimer’s Association at ALZ.org. 

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