Joyce Elaine Flaherty

Joyce Elaine Flaherty, age 79, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin. Joyce was born on February 25, 1947, in Marshalltown, Iowa.

She was formerly married to Michael Flaherty, with whom she shared many years and raised a family prior to their divorce.

Committed to helping others, she earned her degree in Social Work from Austin Community College. Throughout her life, she held a variety of jobs, each reflecting her strong work ethic and caring nature. She found her greatest professional fulfillment as a Program Coordinator with REM Group Homes, where she dedicated herself to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities. She retired from REM after years of compassionate service, leaving a lasting impact on the people she supported and the colleagues who had the privilege of working alongside her.

Joyce found joy in life's simple pleasures and treasured the friendships she made along the way. She especially enjoyed traveling to Mexico with friends, where she created many happy memories. She was an avid bingo and marble player and loved the camaraderie that brought. When she was able, she also enjoyed gardening and bird watching, finding peace and happiness in the beauty of nature.

Joyce spent the last few years of her life at Sacred Heart Care Center, where she was surrounded by exceptional compassion, kindness, and dedicated care. Her family is deeply grateful to the staff, whose love, patience, and support meant more than words can express. They will always hold a special place in our hearts.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilfred and Doris Dickenson; her younger brother, Stanley; and her three sisters, Linda, Wilma, and Mary.

Joyce is survived by her only remaining sibling, her brother, Wilfred Jr (Deb) Dickenson; her three children, Lori (Randy) Welter, Nicole (James) Askelson, and Joe (Cora) Flaherty. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy to her life.

A memorial service for Joyce will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin, Minnesota. The visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will be held at a later date in Conrad Cemetery, Conrad, Iowa. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.