Joy Ann Thomas, 54, of Reidsville, North Carolina, left this world on August 14, 2022, after an 11-year battle with breast cancer. Born October 24, 1967, in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, the hometown of parents Jerome and Marcella Thomas, Joy was raised in Hagerstown, Maryland, along with her sister Lisa. From kindergarten through twelfth grade, graduating in 1985, Joy received special permission to attend school at the Boonsboro complex, where her father was the middle school industrial arts teacher. After graduating in 1989 with a degree in Textiles and Merchandising from the University of Maryland, Joy tried city life but decided to join friends for a new adventure, relocating to the quaint town of Southport, North Carolina. Catching the ferry daily to Bald Head Island, driving a golf cart, and the genuine hospitality of this new Southern lifestyle were undeniable. After several moves east- Wilmington then Greensboro- landing a job at Polo Ralph Lauren, Joy became a resident in the historic town of Reidsville. A golden retriever named Cayenne made her cottage picture perfect!
As an adult in a tight-knit family, Joy lived the dream as Rand McNally’s daughter, hitting the road with her family within the state, out west to Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, and flying to international destinations, such as Cancun, Mexico, or participating in rejuvenating Caribbean cruises. Joy and her sister Lisa covered unknown miles with the dogs in tow and Rand McNally in hand throughout North Carolina, learning history and discovering the value of essential items, such as a second pair of shoes, a case of water, and plenty of snacks! Trips across the country and back provided opportunities to see our beautiful country; extraordinary experiences peering up at the Great Tetons, questioning the rising snow levels at Mt. Rainier National Park, and wishing there was more time at Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. Joy’s keen navigational abilities and patience always led to the right road and home!
With a degree in the culinary arts in 2004 from Greensboro Technical Community College, Joy discovered new passions, opportunities, and friendships. Beyond an internship, Joy became a staff member and friend at the Beth David Kitchen. Her professionalism and excellence elevated her title to Mashgiach, the chef of the Jewish Synagogue. Schedules could not conflict with particular annual events, especially her role as cook at Park Springs Christian Camp; a beloved time celebrating faith, fun, and food with young children. Whether preparing homemade meals for couples or participating in intimate to large events, Joy rarely said no, eager to help anyone in the community. She offered her talent of remodeling and painting projects, learned from the years accompanying her dad’s handyman summer business. Pet sitting was a memorable experience, caring for her clients’ dogs and cats to flocks of chickens, donkeys, goats, and cows.
A breast cancer diagnosis arrived in December 2009. Local family and friends gathered at the hospital during treatments, sharing stories, recipes, and laughing. Upon leaving, friends would call out, “See you at the next party!” Over the years, Joy managed, accepted treatments when needed, and quickly returned to work. Cancer was not going to stop her from living life to the fullest. She relished in her new title, Aunt Joy, to her niece Sayre in June of 2010 and then the birth of her nephew, Finn, in 2013.
Joy’s faith was renewed in the spirit of God’s house at Reidsville Christian Church, a congregation member and bell ringer at Christmas services. On September 30th, 2021, Joy chose to receive the blessing of baptism, one which she remembered, claiming it reaffirmed her absolute faith in Jesus Christ.
Joy joins her nephew Finn Doss, age two, beloved Cayenne, a four-legged companion, and extended family and good friends who await her arrival in Heaven. In addition, she leaves behind her parents, younger sister, Lisa Doss (Kevin), one preteen niece Sayre, and a sweet black lab rescue, Naiyah.
A celebration of life for our dear, extraordinary Joy will occur on Sunday, August 21 at 2:00 PM at Citty Funeral Home, located at 308 Lindsey Street, Reidsville. Pastor Tim Powell will officiate. The family welcomes anyone who wishes to convey their unique experiences and stories concluding the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Park Springs Christian Camp and Retreat Center, 600 Park Springs Lake Road, Providence, NC 27315.
Citty Funeral Home is assisting the Thomas family. Online condolences may be sent to: www.cittyfh.com.
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