Joyce Baldwin

Joyce Ann (Wilson) Baldwin, 77, of Winthrop Harbor, IL passed away surrounded by her loved ones on June 14th, 2025.

Joyce was born on October 18th, 1947 to Hugene Wilson in Briceville, TN. She married Thomas Baldwin in 2003. For most of Joyce’s life, she worked as a Nuclear Medical Technician and several establishments in Winthrop Harbor, IL, including Joe’s Place, the VFW Post 7448, and more. Joyce was also a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 7448.

Joyce had a passion for her family and made sure that she spent time with her children and grandchildren as often as possible. She loved to be outdoors; from gardening to watching birds and deer, Joyce was always looking at the beauty that life had to offer (except for snakes and big worms). Joyce was interest in watching TikTok, baking cakes (which were sometimes of questionable taste), and drinking her medium hot vanilla lattes from McDonalds.

Joyce was loved by many, and her passing will have an impact on everyone that was touched by her. Joyce had four children who will miss her dearly: James (Tina) Kennedy of Winthrop Harbor, IL, Timothy Kennedy Sr. of Winthrop Harbor, IL, Kimberly (Joe) Villarreal of Antioch, IL, and Deborah (Brian) Baartz of Winthrop Harbor, IL. Joyce also had several grandchildren: Jamie, Ryan, Bo, Kaitie, Adriana, Bailey, Timmy, Tevin, Aiden, and Keegan, who will always remember their grandma’s legacy. Joyce was lucky to have 11 great-grandchildren, with one more due in August. Joyce will also be missed by her stepmom Linda Wilson of Rocky Top, TN, sister Teresa (Jr.) Bailey of Briceville, TN, brothers Roger (Holly) Wilson of Racine, WI, grand cat Cali, and great grand cats Beans and Cocoa.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Baldwin, father Hugene Wilson, brothers Charles Wilson and Calvin Wilson, grandchild Justin Lipp, great grandchildren Timothy Kennedy III, Scarlett Ramirez, and Bennett Helmantoler, grand cats Shadow and Stash, and grand dog and Abby.

The family would like to thank the Winthrop Harbor fire department, paramedics, and police who came to know Joyce well in her last months. Their exceptional care and compassion were outstanding and made her feel at ease each time she needed their support. Additionally, to the respiratory technician, Perry, one day she will show you just how good her breathing is. Your stories always put mom at ease and helped her sleep.

To her favorite firefighter/paramedic, Josh, she will be saving a dance for you.

Keep dancing now that you are free from pain. We will see you again one day, but for now, in our hearts you will remain.