Mary Joy Demeter

Mary “Joy” (Templeton) Demeter, 73, of Terre Haute, left this world on Saturday, September 20, 2014, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 15, 1941, in Terre Haute, to Harry and Hila (Brashear) Templeton. She is survived by her husband, John Demeter; daughters Susan (Mike) Willock and Sandy (Jeff) James; her cherished dog, Danny; sister, Juanita Stephens; grandchildren, Tiffany (Erik) Heng, Laura (Jonathan) Bergdoll, Stephanie Willock, Kevin (Shana Dennis) James, and Ashley Willock (Chad Curtis); and great-grandchildren, David Heng and John Bergdoll; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and family. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, Walter Templeton.

Joy was a graduate of Indiana State University with her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees, she went on to earn her PhD in 1983. A former beloved elementary school teacher in Vigo County, she was also assistant superintendent of Monroe-Gregg and Eastern Hancock School Systems, and worked for the Indiana Department of Education. She retired from education as assistant principal of Perry Meridian Middle School.

Joy owned harness racing horses for many years. She was a member of the United Methodist Temple. She was an avid IU Basketball fan and season ticket holder. She enjoyed working in her yard and taking her beloved dog, Danny, for walks. Joy loved her grandchildren and took pleasure in shopping for them and with them. She will be missed by all who loved her.

Visitation will be held from 11 until 1 on Tuesday, September 23 at Roselawn Funeral Home. Services will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, at the funeral home, with Pastor Ken Coffman officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.roselawnfuneralhome.net