Donor Spotlight: Joyce and Terry Lillis
December 1, 2022
Joyce and Terry Lillis are passionate about helping others. As strong philanthropists in our community, they give back so much of their time, leadership and generosity to support those in need.
The Lillis’ have a long history with MercyOne Central Iowa. Joyce served as an RN at MercyOne for 40 years and served as Director of MercyOne Home and Health. She is currently a member of the Mercy College of Health Sciences Board of Directors and serves as the College’s affiliate designee on the MercyOne Des Moines Foundation board. Terry, formal Principal CFO, is a member of the MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center Board of Directors as well.
Throughout the years Joyce and Terry have impacted many different areas at MercyOne Central Iowa and Mercy College through their generous giving. Upon Joyce’s retirement in 2016, Terry established the Joyce E. Lillis Endowed Scholarship at Mercy College to support future nurses in financial need thrive in their education. They continue to contribute to this scholarship yearly.
Most recently, Joyce and Terry served on the committee for the Campaign for the MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center, a $12 million campaign. They aided to the success of the campaign through their own contribution towards the project and encouraged others to give as well. The MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center opened in January 2022.
Earlier this year, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) of Central Iowa recognized Joyce and Terry and were awarded the 2022 Outstanding Individual Philanthropist Award. MercyOne Des Moines Foundation along with Simpson College and the Diocese of Des Moines sent in nomination letters that highlight the Lillis’ caring spirit and generosity.
“It was an honor to nominate Joyce and Terry for this special award and this recognition is well deserved,” said MercyOne Des Moines Foundation President Shannon Cofield. “When you ask them to help, their answer is always yes.”
“They are passionate, caring and deeply committed to sharing their expertise and talents with MercyOne.”
The Foundation is grateful for Joyce and Terry’s continued support of our MercyOne mission and it is a pleasure to work alongside them.
For more information on how you can get involved at MercyOne Des Moines Foundation email foundation@mercydesmoines.org or call 515-247-3248.
