Arthur Lee Joy

Arthur Lee Joy was born October 10, 1940 in Batesville, Mississippi to Willie Sr., and Leeolur Childs Joy. He passed January 28, 2023.

His family moved to Arkansas when Arthur was a child. He joined St. John Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Robert Vanderbilt, Sr. Arthur adored his father, learning to fish and hunt during their time together. He was a graduate of Immanuel High School in Almyra, Arkansas, Class of 1959.

Arthur enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1961. In 1967, he relocated to Chicago and worked as a parking lot attendant, later moving his family there. He then worked for the Chicago Transit Authority as a city bus driver until his retirement. While living in Chicago, Arthur’s favorite hobby was bowling.

After his father’s passing, Arthur moved back to Arkansas to care for his mother. He enjoyed going to church, singing, fishing, hunting, and being with family. He then joined Allen Temple M.B. Church, where he and his wife Barbara helped run the Food Pantry.

He was preceded in death by his son Dwight Alexander Joy, Sr., father Willie Joy, Sr., brothers Willie Joy, Jr., Micheal A. Joy, and Jeffrey J. Joy.

Arthur is survived by his devoted wife Barbara Whitaker-Joy; daughters Connie Joy, Katherine Jacko (Steve), Robin Kimbrough (Raymond), and Danielle Whitaker; sons Aaron Joy (Bonetta) and Robert Whitaker (Marquita); six grandchildren; one great grandson; mother Leeolur Joy; sisters Theresa Mays, Ethel Glees, Earlene Knighten, Ruth McPherson, and Mary Richardson; brothers Robert Joy, Kenneth Joy, and James Joy (Patricia); uncle Willie Coppage (Honey); former wife Emma Brown-Joy; other relatives and friends.

Visitation held February 10, 2023, 5pm – 6pm at Relerford Funeral Home. Funeral held February 11, 2023, 11am at Allen Temple M.B. Church, Stuttgart.

Professional services entrusted to Relerford Funeral Home, Stuttgart. (870) 672-8901.