Nancy "Nan" Sue Joslin

Nancy Sue “Nan” Joslin (née Conlin), age 64, passed away on May 4, 2025, in her hometown of Puyallup, Washington. Born on August 4, 1960, also in Puyallup, Nancy lived a life full of heart, humor, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Nancy’s early years were spent in the schools of Puyallup, where she attended All Saints Catholic School, Stewart Elementary, Kalles Junior High, and graduated from Puyallup High School in 1978. Her roots in the community ran deep, and she carried the spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life.

Her work ethic was evident from a young age when she began picking berries in the local fields. She later worked alongside family at the Liberty Theatre in downtown Puyallup and spent over 18 years at the Puyallup Fair selling tickets and making lifelong friends. Nancy’s career path was as dynamic as she was—she waitressed at the Rose Restaurant, worked event security where she charmed celebrities and made even more friends, and joined the KMart family where she rose to become a furniture manager before transitioning to cashier until the store closed. Later, she found joy working at Brown & Haley in Tacoma making chocolates and candies until an injury ended her working career.

Despite life’s challenges, Nancy never stopped giving. She volunteered whenever she could—even donning the McGruff the Crime Dog costume for community events—and used her creativity to craft signs, candies, and handmade gifts for people and businesses alike. Her talents were many, but none shone brighter than her role as a mother to Gerri and as “Meem” to her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchild.

Nancy’s family was her world. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Gerri (Charles) Kempel; her grandchildren Bailey, Aidan, Carter, Dylan, Elisa, and Fairyn Kempel; and her great-granddaughter Lyla Christmas-Kempel. She also leaves behind countless close friends whom she considered family—too many to name but all deeply cherished.

She now reunites with those who went before her: her parents Edward and Alice Conlin; her brother Patrick Conlin; sister-in-law Jane Tystad; nephew Jeremy Brooker; and many other dear family members and friends whose memories she carried with love.

Nancy had a zest for life that was infectious. She adored getting together with friends over coffee or lunch and had a deep passion for classic cars—especially her treasured 1972 Camaro. A true sports enthusiast, Nancy cheered for Seattle teams with gusto but also had room in her heart for the Yankees (as long as they weren’t playing the Mariners), the Bills (unless they faced the Seahawks), and the Sabres (unless they played the Kraken). She rooted for both the Huskies and Notre Dame with equal enthusiasm. Fridays were often spent checking scores if the Vikings were playing. But her favorite teams were the ones that her daughter and grandkids played on because she was always the one yelling the loudest. 

She loved car shows and cruises just as much as she loved a good sale—whether it was a flea market, yard sale, or thrift shop. She loved the water and being on a boat or sitting on a dock with a fishing pole. Her perfect day included relaxing with loved ones over a coffee, glass of wine, cold beer or Coca-Cola—always paired with a candy bar.

Nancy was truly the life of every party. Her ability to connect with people on a deeper level made her unforgettable. Whether attending concerts or cheering from afar, she brought joy wherever she went. Her Irish heritage held special meaning for her, and she dreamed of visiting Ireland after receiving a transplant—a dream that remained close to her heart.

Above all else, Nancy was fiercely devoted to those she loved. Her warmth, humor, creativity, and boundless generosity left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we are grateful that she is no longer struggling. Her spirit lives on in every laugh shared over coffee or every cheer from the stands.

We will miss Nancy every single day until we are reunited again. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Edward's Memorial 11020 South Tacoma Way. Potluck reception will immediately follow service at Edward's memorial in the reception hall. During the reception members of Cruise Puyallup (and anyone who wants to join) have been invited to participate in a cruise past the funeral home in honor of Nancy. The service will be live streamed or available to be watched later at https://youtube.com/live/S0BP5cSAY80?feature=share