Joyce Lenore Kepner, 82, of Fargo and formerly of Jamestown, a loving and cherished figure to many, was born on May 6, 1943, in Grand Forks, North Dakota to John Howard Vold and Lorene (Smith) Vold. She passed away peacefully at her residence in Fargo on September 28, 2025, surrounded by her husband, daughters and memories that will forever warm the hearts of those who knew her.

Joyce attended Grand Forks High School followed by Macalester College in St. Paul, MN. She then transferred to UND where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Education and she was a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority. Joyce dedicated most of her life to educating the young minds of North Dakota as a substitute teacher in various school districts. Her commitment to nurturing the intellectual curiosity of children exemplified her kind and loving nature. She found great joy in her interactions with students, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.

She and Jerome Broderson were married in April of 1965, they made their home in Grand Forks, ND where she was a substitute teacher until 1970 when the family moved to Jamestown. She continued to sub until 1987, while also owning Park Plaza Liquor from 1975-78. She began as a case manager for Alpha Opportunities in 1987 until her retirement in 2001; while at Alpha she assisted with the organization of Developmental Disabilities Self Service Advocacy Conferences from 1992-98. Jerome died in 2000.

She was a proud member of the Presbyterian Church while she lived in Jamestown.

Joyce was united in marriage to Erl Kepner in 2001. They made their home in California where they enjoyed retirement. They moved to Fargo in 2011.

Joyce Lenore Kepner will be dearly missed but lovingly remembered, her legacy of love and commitment to education enduring in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless students she inspired throughout her lifetime.

She is survived by her husband; 2 daughters, Betsy (Corey), Jamestown, ND and Heidi (Terry), Happy Valley, OR; 6 grandchildren, Jade (Kyle), Katie, Ashley (Forrest), Shane, Kevin, and Lexi; 4 great-grandchildren, Oliver, Silas, Tucker, and Kyra; stepson, Arthur (Jennifer); brother, John Vold; niece Kari (Erik); nephew, Steven; great nephew, Andrew; and great nieces, Ava & Lauren.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Jerome and her parents.

Graveside Service, 11 A.M., Thursday, October 2, 2025 at Highland Home Cemetery, Jamestown, ND.

Joyce Kepner

May 06, 1943 - September 28, 2025

Send Local Flowers & Gifts for Joyce

Categories