Joy Marie McQuillian

Joy Marie McQuillian died, unexpectedly, on Tuesday, March 20, 2018, at her home in Lakeside, Navajo County, Arizona.  She was 41 years old.  Joy was born on a Tuesday, November 9, 1976, in Traverse City, Grand Traverse County, Michigan to her parents, the late George Arthur and Ann Marie (Nelson) McQuillian.She went to Elk Rapids High School in Michigan and was well-liked by the entire student body.  She was a very active young lady and was a popular cheerleader in high school.  As a young newlywed, she moved to Arizona in the early 1990s, making her home in the White Mountains.  For many years, Joy's was a friendly and familiar face at Licano's Restaurant where she warmly greeted everyone with a gentle smile.  Throughout her life, Joy possessed a great love and respect for horses and she loved the rodeo life.  She participated in many rodeos over the years and, even when she wasn't able to compete anymore, she loved being a spectator at the rodeo events.  Joy loved her dogs just like any other member of her family and she spoiled them every chance she got.  She was a fluently gifted writer and, over the years, wrote countless poems throughout her life.  These poems are now considered to be priceless treasures by her family.  Joy was never one to take things for granted and always appreciated the beauty of the White Mountains.  It was the best "back yard" anyone could ever have.  She enjoyed spending quiet days at the lake fishing; where any fishing hole was her favorite fishing hole.  Camping was another way she was able to appreciate the beauty of God's creations and loved spending time in the great out-of-doors with her family and friends.Joy Marie McQuillian is survived by:  her son, Tanner Chapman; 2 sisters:  Joyce Brinkley, Jody Bye; 2 nieces:  Amanda Jane Triewieler, Abigail Triewieler; 3 nephews: Dyllan Triewieler, Jared Thompson and Racon Thompson and is also survived by her 3 faithful dogs: Spree Marie, Scarlette Jane and Homer.  Along with her parents, Joy was preceded in death by her older sister, Jane and by a niece, Jessica.Family and friends are warmly invited to gather for a great Celebration of Joy's Life beginning at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, March 31, 2018, upstairs at the Conference Center at Licano's Mexican Restaurant, 573 W. Deuce of Clubs in Show Low, Arizona.