Joyce Bentz

Joyce Bentz, Jamestown, ND, age 94, died peacefully in her home June 19, 2026. Joyce Jean Eckart was born May 6th, 1932 in Harvey, ND, the daughter of Art and Louise (Jarosch) Eckart. She grew up on the family farm near Martin, in Pierce County, ND.

Her marriage to Donald Bentz took place on November 3, 1950, in the Lutheran Church in Harvey, ND. They farmed for 10 years and then moved to Jamestown in 1961. Joyce was active in many church functions at St. John’s Lutheran and the Church of the Nazarene in Jamestown. She enjoyed embroidering dish towels, playing cards, and socializing with her many friends.

Joyce and her husband took care of 70 foster children over a period of 17 years. She also provided daycare for many children.

Joyce is survived by two children, Lori Stiefel of Jamestown, and Jeffrey (Meryem) Bentz of Fargo. Three grandchildren, Madeline Stiefel (Quinn Dixon) Jamestown, Scott Berge, West Fargo and Nicolette Bresnahan (Patrick), Horace and three great grandchildren with another on the way in October.

Joyce is also survived by sisters; Marlene Wixon, Carol (Fred) Martin, Marge (John) Wagenaar, Kathy Grossman and Judy Eckart brothers; Robert (Gloria) Eckart, Allan Eckart and Steve (Kathy) Eckart and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by dear friends Donna LeFevre and Robert Stiles.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 73 years, two sisters; Vernice Faul and Bonnie Eckart and brothers; Donald Eckart and Larry Eckart, Brothers in law Alvin Faul, Wes Wixon and Larry Grossman, Sister-in-law; Hannelore Eckart.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the JRMC Hospice nurses and staff.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Jamestown Kiwanis or JRMC Hospice.

Visitation will be Wednesday June 24, 2026 at Eddy Funeral Home from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Funeral service will be held at the 1st Church of the Nazarene in Jamestown, on Thursday June 25, 2026 at 10:30 AM with Pastor Greg Allen officiating. Burial will be at Highland Homes Cemetery in Jamestown.

Funeral arrangements by Eddy Funeral Home, Jamestown.