Vanari Leon Joy, 89, of Falls City, NE, passed away August 24, 2019 at Falls City. He was born March 27, 1930 at Salem, NE to the late Ivan and Esta (Wittwer) Joy.

He married Amy Carolyn Houston on September 12, 1954 at Salem, NE.

Leon was raised in Salem and Falls City. He graduated from Falls City High School in 1947 and then attended Peru State College and earned a degree in Math. Later he earned a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Nebraska. Leon served in the army and was stationed in California at Fort Ord. He taught Math at Falls City High School for 25 years until retirement. After leaving teaching, Leon returned to work in the oilfields. He was a member of the First United Presbyterian Church where he was very active. He had been a member of the Rotary Club, Falls City Power Board, and he was President and Vice President of the Nebraska Education Association.

Leon is survived by his children Cindy (Scott) Adams, Van (Itzel) Joy, Rodney (Murial) Joy, Amy (Jim) Cleveland, grandchildren, Allison, Quentin, Amanda, and Andrew Joy, Becky Oeltjenbruns, Aaron (Lindsey) and Sam Cleveland, sisters-in-law Karen Joy and Kathryn Nolte. He was proceeded in death by his parents, wife, and brother.

Leon’s memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at 11:00 AM at the First United Presbyterian Church with Pastor Rick Martin officiating. A private inurnment service will be held at Maple Cemetery.

The family prefers memorials to Maple Cemetery or First United Presbyterian Church.

No viewing or visitation.