Joy A. Rittmeyer

Joy Ann Rittmeyer, 79, slipped peacefully into the reality of Heaven Saturday evening, March 13, 2021, while at home, with family by her side, after a short bout with abdominal cancer. Born October, 15, 1941 in Rockford, IL, the daughter of Sigurd and Theda Johnson, Joy married the love of her life, Glen Rittmeyer, June 3, 1972 and lovingly made a home with him, walking together, gladly, side-by-side and hand-in hand, for 48 years. Joy taught countless children and adults piano and organ lessons, sharing her loves of music, teaching and cheer-leading with any who desired to learn the joy (and Joy) of music. When not at the keyboard, Joy earnestly cared for her flower and hosta gardens, immaculately kept house, enthusiastically decorated for holidays and seasons, and excitedly helped Glen plan and foster family vacations. Above all, Joy quietly and gently nurtured others, always cheering them on toward love and good deeds, encouraging them to make right, even if difficult, decisions, consistent with Biblical Truth she gleaned from Sunday school, hearing the witness of others, and answering Jesus’ call while attending, with friends, a 1950s revival meeting in Rockford. Predeceased by her parents, Sigurd and Theda Johnson, and brother Kevin Johnson, she is lovingly and adoringly survived by her husband, Glen, two children, Kim (Mike), and Gavin (Laura); six grandchildren, Jordan (Kjelse), Josiah (Colleen), Lucas, Kelsey (Andrew), Nathanael (Kristy), and Lydia; and ten great-grandchildren, Eliana, Jacob; Svanja, Judah, Silas, Anneli; Lyla, Levi, Logan and Liam.

A walk through visitation, Saturday, March 20, 11 a.m. -2 p.m., Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 1860 S. Mulford, Rd, Rockford, IL. Masks and social distancing required. Burial at 3:30 p.m. at Winnebago Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Joy’s name to Heartland Hospice Care. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.