Joy Lynne Vander Werff, daughter of Thomas Glenn and Ethel Gertrude (Moore) Borden, came into the world on Christmas Eve, 1961, and was baptized at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church in Sanborn.

    She grew up in Sanborn, IA, along with her three brothers, attending Sanborn Community School. After graduation from high school, Joy furthered her education for one year at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, then earning her AA degree from Worthington Community College in Worthington, MN. Over the years, her skills were put to use at Vander Werff and Associates in Sanborn, Rod Rockman Insurance in Sibley, IA, Johnston Automotive in Spencer, IA, Farmers Feed and Supply out of Boyden, IA and Archer Coop and Grain in Archer, IA. After 30 years of service to the Archer Coop, Joy retired in 2025.

    On October 12, 1991, Joy was united in marriage to Richard Lee “Rich” Vander Werff at the historic Covey Church in rural O’Brien County. They would spend the bulk of their life on the farm east of Sanborn, taking in all the pleasures country living has to offer. Joy loved being outdoors whether it was helping Rich with his cow-calf operation or doting on the many cats and kittens that lived on their place. When the grandchildren would come for a visit, each one could choose their own little fur ball to hug and play with.

   Music was a big part of Joy’s life having been a trumpet player and choir member during her school years, as well as playing the piano. As an active member of the Christian Reformed Church in Sanborn, she was happy to share her musical talents when called upon and enjoyed participating in the Women’s Bible Study group. She especially looked forward to time spent with the grandkids, taking in their school plays and programs and attending sporting and music events.  

    On Friday, March 27, 2026, Joy was reunited with loved ones who had gone before; her parents, Tom and Ethel Borden; an infant sister, Marsha Sue Borden; brothers: Terry Borden and Rick Borden; grandparents, Ira Clark and Mary Ellen Moore.

    Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Rich of Sanborn; step-children: Justin (Miranda) Vander Werff and their children: Lydia, Naomi, Josiah, Ezra and Titus all of Sioux Center, IA, Rachelle (Zechariah) Schiebout and their children: Miriam, Abigail, Keilah, Nahshon, Jude and Thaddeus all of Pella, IA, and Brent (Jill) Vander Werff and their children: Sydney, Gabriella, Summer and Gracie all of Sanborn, IA; her brothers: Scott (RuthAnn) Borden of Sanborn, IA and their children: Lisa, Jessica, Madison and Wyatt, and Doug (Aaron) Borden of Primghar, IA and their children: Chris, Craig and Leon; sister-in-law, Sharon Borden of Maple Lake, MN; other relatives and friends.