Virginia Joy Obituary

Virginia L. Joy

Jul 2, 1931 - Apr 10, 2026

Lakeside

Virginia L. Joy, 94, of Lakeside, passed away peacefully Friday, April 10, 2026, at Otterbein North Shore.

Born July 2, 1931, on a farm near Pioneer, Ohio, Virginia became a lifelong resident of Lakeside after moving there with her young family in 1953. She embraced the spirit of the community, enjoyed attending programs at Hoover Auditorium, supported East Ohio Conference activities, and sometimes simply being a "dock potato." She remained devoted to Lakeside throughout her life, never living more than a quarter mile from her first home on Maple.

Known for her empathy, spiritual leadership, and dedication to serving others, Virginia was deeply involved in Lakeside United Methodist Church, where she served as local president, circle leader, and church school superintendent. She also held numerous leadership roles within United Methodist Women (UMW), including district president, conference president, program resource leader, and member of the local social action committee. Through her work with UMW, Virginia traveled to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to serve children at Grace Children's Hospital and later contributed at the national level as a board member of the Women's Division, representing nine states and fourteen conferences.

Recognizing the need for preschool education in the local area, Virginia returned to college at age 50 to earn her degree in Early Childhood Education. In 1983, she and her daughter-in-law, Sue Joy, founded Small Joys Nursery School, which served local three-, four-, and five-year-olds for over twenty years. Through her patience, encouragement, and genuine love for each child, Virginia helped shape the lives of countless young learners.

Virginia is survived by her daughter, Kathie Joy; her son, Keith (Kathy) Joy; her daughters-in-law, Sue (Ken) Joy and Julie (Kent) Joy; and her sister-in-law, Betty (Don) Schrock. She is also lovingly remembered by her thirteen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren, who affectionately called her "Gigi."

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, John and Florence (Kohl) Boyer; her brother, Larry Boyer; and her sons, Rev. W. Kent Joy and Kenneth Joy.

Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2026, followed by her funeral service at 11 a.m. at Lakeside United Methodist Church, 450 Central Ave. Lakeside, OH 43440. The service will be live-streamed and available for viewing later at www.lakesideohumc.com .

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Virginia may be given to Lakeside Women in Faith, 450 Central Ave. Lakeside, OH 43440.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.neidecker crosserpriesman.com

Neidecker, Crosser & Priesman Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Peninsula Chapel, assisted family with arrangements.