Joyce Cotter (Wallace) Brehm

Joyce Cotter (Wallace) Brehm, 94, a cherished mother, grandmother, and devoted sister, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, at Langdale Hospice House in Valdosta, Georgia.

Born on March 16, 1932, in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Joyce was the beloved daughter of the late Gerald and Alta Cotter. She lived a life defined by warmth, faith, deep devotion to her family and community, and a timeless elegance that was evident in all she did.

Joyce built a meaningful career as a real estate agent in Valdosta, where she helped countless families find homes and establish roots. She was known not only for her professionalism, but for her gracious manner, attention to detail, and genuine care for the people she served.

Well ahead of its time, Joyce also hosted a televised cooking show on PBS in Michigan, where she shared her love of food, hospitality, and bringing people together. A talented cook, she also won chicken cooking contests in Arkansas and Georgia, a reflection of both her creativity and her passion for the art of cooking.

A faithful member of St. John’s the Evangelist Catholic Church, Joyce gave generously of her time and spirit. She served as a Eucharistic Minister for many years and contributed her time and efforts to parish committees, forming lasting friendships and touching many lives through her quiet service and steady faith.

Above all, Joyce found her greatest joy in her family. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Michael (Stephanie) of Valdosta, Russell (Laurie) of Valdosta, and Megan (Mary) of Chevy Chase, Maryland. She also leaves behind her siblings: Jerry (Margie) Cotter, Mary Ellen Goodwin, Carol Cross, and Lisa Cotter and many nieces and nephews. Joyce also leaves behind her cherished friend Bob Kipper.

Known as “Mimi” to her grandchildren, she will be deeply missed by Pierce, Doyle (Lara), Austin and Madalyn Wallace; Caroline and Eleanor Wallace; and Patrick, Alexandra, and Christopher Wallace, all of whom brought her immense pride and happiness.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William Brehm; her sister, Ruth Gase; and her brother, Thomas Cotter; and her former husband Robert E. Wallace.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Langdale Place and Langdale Hospice House for the kindness, dignity, and exceptional care they provided to their beloved mother.

A funeral mass to honor Joyce’s life will be held on April 6, 2026, at 11:00 am at St. John’s the Evangelist Catholic Church (800 Gornto Road, Valdosta, GA). The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 am at St. John’s. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joyce’s honor to St. John’s Catholic School (800 Gornto Road, Valdosta, GA 31602) or Hospice House of South Georgia (2263 Pineview Drive, Valdosta, GA 31602).

Joyce will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering faith, her gracious spirit, and the quiet elegance with which she lived and loved. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.