Joy J. Buchholtz

Joy's legacy of love continues through her children: Deborah Neely of Lake Wales, Florida; Timothy Buchholtz (Beverly) of Lloyd, Florida; Patricia Green (Darrell) of Riverview, Florida; Jean Nicholson of Indianapolis, Indiana; and Jonathan Buchholtz (Nicole) of Valrico, Florida. She was a cherished grandmother to Jennifer Buchholtz, Benjamin Buchholtz, Ryan Neely, Nathaniel Green, Stephen Green, Darren Green, Deanne Kopel, Desiree Nicholson, Angel Hawkins, Bill Nicholson, Joshua Buchholtz, and Andrew Chan; and a beloved great-grandmother to Hailey Neely, Carlie Neely, Marley Green, Dillynn Green, Nolan Green, Madison Calderon, Alloura Green, Derrick Green, Brielle Richmond, and Violet Buchholtz. Joy is also survived by her sister, Carol Zurbuchen (George) of Tinley Park, Illinois, and her brother, Elsworth Doss (Elizabeth) of Fernandina Beach, Florida.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carl Buchholtz; her son, Randell Buchholtz; her parents, Raymond and Lucille Doss (née Daskam); and her sister, Naomi Lembke.

Born on July 31, 1933, in Marathon, Iowa, to the Pentecostal “Doss Evangelistic Team,” Joy experienced the resilience of growing up during the Great Depression. After her family settled in Wisconsin, she graduated from Rufus King High School in Milwaukee in 1951 and soon married Carl Buchholtz, a proud U.S. Navy sailor.

Joy and Carl built a life centered on faith, family, and service. After settling in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, and later moving to Florida in 1972, Joy dedicated herself to fostering children. From 1962 onward, she and Carl opened their home to hundreds of children, and Joy became a trusted guide for prospective foster parents.

Joy’s unwavering faith was the cornerstone of her life. From the age of 14, when she gave her heart to Jesus, she served her church community in numerous roles, most recently as a devoted member of Tampa Life Church for the past 40 years. Whether teaching Sunday School, leading Bible studies, or guiding seniors’ ministries, Joy’s gentle strength and kindness touched countless lives.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Joy's remarkable life will be held at Tampa Life Church, 10930 N. US Highway 301, Thonotosassa, Florida, with Pastor Robert Tisdale officiating. All who knew and loved Joy are warmly invited to join us.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at LifePath Hospice House in Ruskin, Florida, for their dedicated care.