BELFAST — Joyce Estelle Lear, 88, long-time resident of Northport and most recently of Belfast, passed away surrounded by her loving family on March 10, 2020.

She was born to Clarence and Mildred (Darby) Rich in Searsport, Maine on August 22, 1931. She attended local schools, and after graduating Crosby High School, Joyce married Earle P. Lear. Joyce and Earle enjoyed many years of marriage and raised six children together. Joyce also worked as a dietary aide at the Camden Health Care Center.

Joyce enjoyed spending time with her friends, especially her closest group of friends, Faustina Merry, Margaret Kinney and Delores Merry.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was predeceased by her husband, Earle P. Lear, and one son, Alan S. Lear; siblings Jean Bissell, John Rich and Ralph Rich; and her beloved dog, Nike.

Joyce is survived by her children, Linda Lear of Eliot, Steven Lear of Thorndike, Gayle Lear of Northport, Randy Lear and his wife Patricia of Belfast, and Debra Lear of Northport; her sister, Polly Snowdeal and her husband Bernard of Rockland; and sister-in-law, Lourene Rich; grandchildren, Neil Pendleton, Meaghan Heusler, Rebekah Lear-Pendleton, and Eric Lear.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to the Bangor Humane Society 693 Mt. Hope Ave. Bangor, ME 04401 or www.bangorhumane.org/donate-ways-to-give/donate-now-your-gift-impact/.

Arrangements are in the care of Riposta Funeral Home, Belfast.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at ripostafh.com.