Joyce Zeal, 95, of Monroe, Wi. formerly of Warren Il. passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at the New Glarus Nursing Home in New Glarus, WI.  The 6th of 10 children born to Roy and Edna (Ferrey) Downs, she was born in Lead Mine, WI. Joyce married Allen Zeal on February 22, 1949 at the Methodist Church in Galena, Il. and together they were married over 50 years and raised 8 children.

Joyce and her husband spent many years farming together while raising their 8 children. Playing cards was their favorite pastime, and they spent many hours with relatives and friends seriously playing and discussing the game. 

Joyce enjoyed dancing together with her husband, sometimes singing and yodeling at some of the dance locations they frequented.  She spent several years in a bowling league with her sisters in Stockton, Il.   She enjoyed creating and decorating cakes for graduations, weddings and birthdays. For many years, she did painting and wallpapering along with her sisters and other family members. She also enjoyed outdoor gardening and raising multiple house plants. She was known for her many African violets.

Joyce is survived by 6 children, Lin Block of Monroe, Wi, Barb (Russell) Wirth, New Glarus, Wi. Ron (Lorie) Zeal of Juda, Wi. Tom (Chris) Zeal, Monticello, Wi. Sam (Jane) Zeal of Monroe, Wi. Rich Zeal of Gratiot Wi, 13 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, 2 great, great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Allen in 2001, son Donald Zeal in 2020, daughter, Deanna Wright in 2024, son in law, Russell Block in 2017, 9 siblings and special friend, Robert Gill in 2015.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, Feb. 14th. at the Bartell -Leamon Funeral Home in Warren, Il. Visitation from 11:00 am until time of service.

A luncheon will be served at Hess’ Ember & Ash Casual Dining in Warren, IL. following the service.

Officiating the service will be Rev. Christina Schoenwetter.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

A memorial has been established in her memory.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.leamonfh.com