Joy Verner, a gifted artist whose life was defined by her creative spirit, her mastery of color and form, and a deep, cultivated gratitude for the natural world, passed away on March 8, 2026. She was 87 years old.

Born on May 30, 1938, in Waltham, Massachusetts, Joy was the daughter of Charles E. Verner and Alma Verner. She grew up in Watertown, graduating from Watertown High School in 1956.

Joy’s true calling was discovered early, leading her to the Massachusetts College of Art. It was here that she honed the skills that would define her lifelong journey as an artist.

Joy was a master of multiple disciplines, finding equal expression through the vibrant strokes of her paintings and the tactile beauty of her ceramics. Her work was a reflection of a unique vision bold, intentional, and deeply personal.

With a spirit of adventure, Joy moved to California as a young adult and lived in Santa Barbara from the 1960s through the 1980s.

In 1987, Joy moved to Little River on the northern California coast, which became her sanctuary for nearly four decades. In her final years, she spent her days cultivating serenity, peace and gratitude within her heart and her home.

Though she lived a solitary life, she enjoyed the constant companionship of her beloved dogs Demi and Tiku.

Joy immersed herself in a deep appreciation of the land she stewarded, trekking through the forest, fields, bluffs and beach, savoring every detail of beauty in the land, ocean and sky.

She provided a sanctuary to visitors who came from near and far to enjoy her presence and the space she created.

Joy is survived by her beloved sons Trale Broudy (Marjorie) and Trev Broudy; brother Charles E. Verner Jr. (Eileen); granddaughter Cee Broudy; and her nieces and nephew Melissa Verner, Rebecca Verner, Jennifer Verner and Jason Verner.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Alma Verner; brother Robert Verner; and her granddaughter Kiara Broudy.

In honor of Joy’s legacy and her commitment to her community, the family suggests that those who wish to make a donation in her name consider the Mendocino Coast Children’s Fund, a charity Joy supported throughout her life.