Joyce Marcia (Johnston) Esser

Joyce Marcia (Johnston) Esser passed away on September 6th, 2023, in Spokane, Washington at the age of 89. Joyce was born on October 26th, 1933, to Roy and Viola Johnston. Joyce grew up in Camas, Washington with her older sister Jeanette and younger brother Leroy on the family’s dairy farm. Despite the hard work of living on a farm, Joyce always looked back on her childhood with fondness, often recalling the adventures she had with her siblings on the sprawling Johnston Dairy.

Joyce married Gerald Borjessan in October 1951. They had four children. Laurie, Jeff, Kory, and Marcia. Joyce married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Esser in July 1964. Joyce gave birth to a daughter, Joni in June 1965.

Joyce was a strong and stoic person, which saw her through challenging times. Joyce was an exceptional cook. Family and friends alike enjoyed her creations. She enjoyed ceramics for a time before Bob passed. Joyce also enjoyed gardening, especially flowering plants. Joyce loved spending time with her family. She was a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, Aunt, and friend to so many. Her passing has left a hole in the hearts of all who knew her.

Joyce is survived by her brother Leroy Johnston of Camas WA,
sister Jeanette Gillas of Camas WA. Five children, Laurie Robinson
of Vancouver WA, Jeffrey Borjessan of Spokane WA, Kory Borjessan of Orient WA, Marcia Borjessan of Spokane WA. And Joni Hendrickson of Vancouver WA. Joyce is also survived by 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Joyce was preceded in death by her Mother, Father, and her beloved husband Bob.