We are saddened to announce the passing of our mom, Helen Joyce Miranda, who left this world on February 9, 2024. She was 93 years old and lived a long and happy life.

Born on April 29, 1930, Mom was the daughter of Christopher Olson and Mary Erickson. She grew up in Fortuna and was an only child.

Following graduation from high school, Mom married John Joseph Miranda on January 3, 1948 and together they were blessed with 10 children. Mom always said she wished she had a brother or sister, never wanting to be an only child.

Mom was known for her love of flowers and her green thumb, boasting one of the most beautiful begonia gardens in Ferndale. She spent countless hours in the garden nurturing those gorgeous blossoms. In her younger years, she spent countless hours preparing flowers (many which came from her own garden) for local events and weddings and participating in local craft fairs. In her later years, she spent her time playing cards with friends and crocheting countless blankets and Afghans for friends and family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Miranda; daughter Maryanne Feierabend; and sons-in-law Emil Feierabend and Jeffrey Farley. She is survived by her children Johnny (Patsy), Mike (Lisa), Kathy (Jerry), Tom, Joanne, Robert (Janice), Diana (Danny), Tim (Dorice), Shari (Ron) and 30 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Mom never missed an opportunity to let everyone know how many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren she had.

While we mourn Mom’s passing, we take solace in knowing that she has been reunited with dad, her daughter Maryanne and numerous departed friends and loved ones.

Private family services will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Joyce Miranda’s memory.

We will carry mom’s memory in our hearts. Rest in peace Mom, we will miss you but know you are happy now that you and dad have been reunited.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Joyce Miranda’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.