Joyce Biddle

Joyce Biddle, 73, of Knoxville, passed away August 9, 2025, at MercyOne Hospital in
Des Moines. Joyce wanted to have a party instead of a funeral, so Joyce’s Celebration
will be held Tuesday, August 19 th , from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Pierschbacher’s in
Knoxville. At her request chips and queso and other snacks will be served along with a
game of Bingo. In lieu of flowers, Joyce would like to help others by making memorial
contributions to the Knoxville Fire and Rescue, the Melcher-Dallas American Legion
Auxiliary Post 632, or the Margaret Long Infusion Center.
Joyce was born March 3, 1952, in Chariton, Iowa to Ernest and Pauline Colgan. She
attended school in Melcher-Dallas with the class of 1970. Joyce and Richard Biddle
were childhood sweethearts, and they were married on December 28, 1970.
Joyce worked many jobs over the years, but being a stay-at-home mom was a true joy
to her. She loved her family and enjoyed her children, grandchildren and extended
family. There were many fun adventures with Joyce, her sense of humor and antics
were unstoppable. She was sassy, witty, and fun, even as she battled cancer, her humor
remained, teasing nurses and those who cared for her on her last days.
Joyce loved to cook and bake, having margaritas with the girls, going camping,
especially with the retired Knoxville VA firefighters’ group, and playing games –
especially bingo and her lucky number “O66” in the corner. She also loved shows on
supernatural events and Big Foot.
She was a grandma to everyone – always wanting what was best for everyone and
wanting to help fix any problems that might come your way. She was a good listener
and made everyone feel welcome and safe. If you knew Joyce, you loved her!
She will be greatly missed by her husband Richard; children: Dwight (Valerie) Biddle,
Theresa (Jeff) Vance; grandchildren: Ben (René) Gressley, Zach (Emma) Cupples, and
Ashley Vance; great grandchildren: Emberlen, Kaci, and Juniper; brother, Ernest
Colgan; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Preceding her in death were her beloved grandma, Imo Griffith, her parents, and her
sisters, Judith Colgan and Peggy Colgan.