Joy Fay Garrett

Joy Fay Garrett, 98, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on May 30, 2026.

Joy was born on January 7, 1928, in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Henry and Nannie Braxton.

Joy is survived by her beloved husband of 72 years, Robert Leon Garrett. She is also survived by her children, Brenda Heid (Robert), JoAnn Broaddus (Jim), David Garrett, Shirley Lynch (Christopher), and Sharon Schreiner (Thomas).

Joy was blessed with 25 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren, all of whom loved her dearly. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Jackie Braxton, and her nieces, Carrie Kauk and Hannah Ward.

She was preceded in death by her brothers, Henry Braxton and James Braxton, and by her son, Robert Garrett Jr.

Joy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and woman of faith. In her earlier years, she worked as a nurse before dedicating herself to caring for her family. She lovingly made clothing for her children and grandchildren and was known for the handmade dolls she sewed with care.

Alongside her husband, Joy served in ministry work in Africa for many years, where she taught the Bible to African women and shared her faith with others. Her relationship with God was the foundation of her life. She faithfully read through the Bible every year and, in her later years, often read it several times annually.

Joy grew up in Louisville and was raised in the Ormsby Avenue Church of Christ, where she and Robert were married 72 years ago. She remained a faithful member of the Church of Christ throughout her life.

Above all, Joy cherished her family and treasured every moment spent with them. Her faith, kindness, wisdom, and love will be remembered by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Louisville Memorial Gardens East.