Joyce M. Ambrose

Joyce M. Ambrose, age 95, a longtime resident of Whatcom County, Washington, passed from this earth to Heaven on March 20, 2026. Our hearts are broken for us, and elated for her, mixed with a strange sense of loss and peace. God comforts the brokenhearted. We begin our journey of grief and learn to live with loss while honoring all she was to us, we will be remembering that we are a part of her legacy. Joyce was born on May 19, 1930, in Sedro-Woolley, Washington, to Esther and Forrest “Shorty” Stanley. In May of 1948, she married Lawrence D. Ambrose. They made their home in Wickersham, Washington. In 1955, they moved to Poulsbo for two years before returning to Wickersham, where they raised their family and spent most of their lives together. Joyce remained there until after Lawrence's death in 2009. She later moved to Bellingham in 2011. Joyce had a strong faith in God and loved Jesus unwaveringly with her whole heart. She was an active member of her church and shared her faith through kindness, generosity, and the way she treated others. She delighted in music and singing, as well as sewing, quilting, and other crafts. Joyce also loved to travel and see different parts of the country by car, plane, or bus. Some of her favorite trips were with her husband, sister-in-law Charlene, and her brother-in-law Bud Ambrose. Joyce and Lawrence built many lasting friendships over the years and were known for hosting gatherings and barbecues that brought people together. Joyce is survived by her children, Donald Ambrose (Miriam) of Anacortes, Washington, and Peggy Stewart of Bellingham, Washington; six grandchildren, Nathan Stewart (Malia), Matthew Ambrose (Megan), Mitch Stewart (Tara), Melody Chambers (Marcus), Nichole Nathan (Eric), and Megan Nash; eleven great-grandchildren, Keli Masterson (Dan), Kini Erickson (T.J.), Ava Stewart, Corbin Stewart, Sage Nah, Genevieve Nathan, Emmett Stewart, Henry Nathan, Phillip Nathan, Owen Ambrose, and Mac Ambrose; and one great-great-grandchild, William Duenas. Joyce lived a life that showed care for others and quiet strength. Joyce’s realm of influence and her witness of God’s presence as evident and tangible endures as we remember the manner in which she lived out the ebb and flow of her life. Our Beloved matriarch has left us an example of a clearly lit pathway for us to honor and follow. Her final resting place will be at the Saxon Cemetery in Acme, WA, next to Lawrence. Her memorial service will be held at Cordata Presbyterian Church, located at 400 Meadowbrook Ct, in Bellingham, on April 25, 2026, at 11:00 am. Please visit www.molesfarewelltributes.com to sign her guestbook and share your memories. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to Whatcom Hospice in her honor.

Joyce M. Ambrose

May 19, 1930 - March 20, 2026