Joyce Ann Powers

Joyce Ann Powers of Mount Horeb, WI, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 24, 2023, at the age of 86.  

Joyce was a graduate of Albion College in Michigan, who earned a Master’s Degree from UW- Madison. Her training as a wildlife biologist and her curiosity and passion for the natural world, led to a career as a native plant restoration ecologist, specializing in the prairie, woodland, and wetland habitats of the Upper Midwest. She was the proud owner of Prairie Ridge Nursery and CRM Ecosystems, Inc., for decades. She was a natural teacher, and a large part of her legacy was mentoring future generations of environmental stewards. A lover of Dixieland Jazz, she was an active member of the Madison Jazz Society, serving on its board for several years. 

She is survived by four treasured children: Mark Powers (Patricia), Michele Powers, Andrea Robertson (Barron), and Shara Laccone (Frank). She was the proud grandmother of: Noah Powers, Mary (Noah) Henn, Luke Powers, Isaac Laccone, Dylan Powers, Talon Laccone, Dashiell Robertson, and Ruby Robertson.  

She is further survived by two step-children, Dan Powers (Jiwon) and Jane Powers (Andy Herman); former husband, Robert Jais; as well as many cherished cousins and dear friends.  

Joyce was preceded in death by both of her parents, Ruth (née Wittenbach) and Maurice Quigley; and former husband, Richard Powers.  

A celebration of Joyce’s life will take place at her home on Sunday, August 13, beginning at 1 p.m. For details or to RSVP, the family invites you to contact: JoyceMemorial813@gmail.com. In the meantime, please remember her with each walk in nature or when you see a bird on the wing.  

Memorial contributions may be directed to Wisconsin Public Radio or the Prairie Enthusiasts. Joyce’s family would like to express sincere thanks to the staff of Agrace Hospice for their compassionate care, and to Joyce’s devoted friend, Jody Morey, for her loyal friendship.