David W. Joy

April 21, 1938 - January 25, 2025

David Wainwright Joy, 86, of California, Maryland, passed away on January 25, 2025. Born on April 21, 1938, in Baltimore, Maryland, he was the son of Raymond Sylvester Joy and Helen Lee Wainwright. He was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia J. Priddy (Richard, †2016), and his beloved granddaughter, Taylor R. Werner (†1991).

David married his childhood sweetheart, Shirley A. Gurry, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love and family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his daughters, Sharon J. Werner (Edward) and Susan R. J. McDaniel (Robert); his grandchildren, Erin J. Douglas (Brian), Matthew E. Werner, Colin F. McDaniel, and Caitlin A. Barton (Benjamin); and his great-grandchildren, Colton E. Douglas and Carson D. Douglas.

David served proudly in the U.S. Navy for 20 years before retiring. After his military service, he pursued his passion for photography and worked at the U.S. Senate, capturing moments in history. In his retirement, he enjoyed gardening, painting, drawing, and occasionally carving decoys.

David had a deep love for animals and was always the one bringing home strays, making sure every creature had a place to be loved and cared for.

Though he will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with the love of his life, Shirley, and his granddaughter, Taylor, for eternity.

A committal service will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 10:30 AM at:

Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery

11301 Crain Hwy

Cheltenham, MD

This will be followed by a Celebration of Life Gathering and Repast at 11:30 AM at:

Brookfield United Methodist Church

12806 Croom Rd

Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Friends and family are welcome to share memories and honor David’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital

Brookfield United Methodist Church