Joelle Marie VanGuilder, 47, beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished daughter, loving sister, and adoring grandmother, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 8, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family. Born in Lexington, KY, Joelle was the daughter of Anne Boudreau Baumgartner of Lexington and the late Joel Baumgartner.

Joelle lived life with warmth, strength, and a heart full of love. She was a woman of unshakable faith and a proud member of Southland Christian Church, where she found great joy and peace in her relationship with God. Her love for the outdoors reflected her vibrant spirit — whether she was hiking scenic trails or crossing the finish line at one of the many half-marathons, 10Ks, or 5Ks she ran with determination and joy.

But, above all, Joelle's greatest passion and purpose in life was her family. She poured her heart into motherhood, always present, always cheering, whether on the sidelines of her children's games or in the everyday moments that mattered most. Her love was fierce, unwavering, and unconditional. She found immense joy in becoming "Grandma Jo" to her three beautiful grandchildren, whose giggles and hugs lit up her world.

Joelle is survived by her loving husband of 20 years, Gaylord VanGuilder II; her children, Briana Velasquez-Niese (Robert Velasquez-Niese) of Frankfort, Kinsley, Colton, and Beaux VanGuilder, all of Georgetown; her treasured grandchildren, Josephine, Elijah, and Oliver Velasquez-Niese; her mother, Anne Baumgartner; her brother, Sam Baumgartner (Meg Davis-Bowling) of Lexington; and many nephews.

Joelle's legacy of love, faith, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A memorial service to celebrate Joelle's life will be 6 PM Thursday at Harmony Christian Church. Visitation will be 4 PM till service time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in honor of Joelle at https://gofund.me/ed9fa865.