Joy Armida Meissner

Joy Armida Meissner of Lynden, WA, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 9, 2026, at the age of 81. Born in Bellingham, Washington, in 1944, Joy was the oldest of five siblings born to Harvey Jerome Flugekvam and Lily Armida Flugekvam. She grew up in Bellingham and attended Bellingham High School, where she played the French horn in the marching band. She went on to study biblical theology at Northwest Bible College before marrying and starting her family. Joy was devoted to serving the Lord and was called to many ministries throughout her life. During her years as a young adult, she was called to Teen Challenge in Seattle and to youth pastoring at various churches in the Pacific Northwest. Years later, with a growing family of her own, she opened her home as a foster parent, caring for as many as thirteen children over nearly a decade. During this time, she also served as the director at Birthright, where she worked alongside women facing unplanned pregnancies. She supported them emotionally and logistically as they prepared to welcome new life into the world, a role she was especially passionate about. Joy held a deep appreciation for God’s creation. From the beaches of the Oregon Coast to the Buffalo River in Arkansas, she found peace and inspiration in the natural world. She loved thunderstorms and the sound of cicadas. She loved lightning bugs and the cool winds that cut through humid Midwestern evenings. More than anything, she delighted in sharing moments in nature with the people she loved. True to her name, Joy lifted the spirits of those around her with her kindness, empathy, generosity, and humor. Joy was always ready to lend an ear, offer a hug, provide encouragement, or share in a joke. Her laughter was big, rollicking, and contagious, often filling the room and making ordinary moments unforgettable. Joy will be dearly missed by all who had the good fortune to know and love her. Joy is survived by her children Daniel Meissner, Deonne Almacen, Dominick Meissner, David Meissner, and Carmen Durfey; her grandchildren Emmaline, Isabella, Caleb, Cricket, Astrid, and Madeline; her sisters Luanne and Rachel; and her brother Paul. She was preceded in death by her parents Harvey Jerome Flugekvam and Lily Armida Flugekvam and her sister Nadine Cantelon. A graveside service will be conducted at Moles Greenacres Memorial Park on Monday, March 16, at 2 p.m. A reception will follow at the home of David and Elaine Meissner

Joy Armida Meissner

March 5, 1944 - February 9, 2026