Joy Garner

Joy Carman Garner, 94, of St. Simons Island, passed away on Sunday, February 3rd. Joy was born in Red Bank, NJ, on February 15, 1918. She attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, then Women’s College, and obtained a degree in social work. After graduation she was employed in Bradenton, FL. In 1942 she married her husband, Hugh M. Garner. During their marriage Hugh served as an officer in the Army for 23 years, and then was a professor at Brunswick Junior College. While in the military they were stationed around the U.S., as well as in Germany and Japan. In 1965 Joy and her family settled in Brunswick, and after her husband’s death, moved to St. Simons Island in 1977.

Joy loved traveling worldwide. She was an active member at First United Methodist Church of Brunswick, and a charter member of Wesley United Methodist Church. She most recently attended Lord of Life Lutheran Church. Joy was a member of many clubs and organizations, including the American Association of University Women and the Historical Society. She was a long time member of the Cassina Garden Club. She continued to participate in her bridge clubs even after the loss of her vision by memorizing the cards played. Joy loved doing water aerobics with her friends at St. Simons Health and Fitness Center. Joy was a true role model and inspiration to her loving family and large circle of friends. “Joy” was a fitting name as she spread joy and love to all who knew her. She was known for her sense of humor, independence and enthusiasm for life.

Joy is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Hinson of Brunswick, two sons, Steven Garner of Asheville, NC, and Patrick Garner of Northborough, MA, her grandchildren, Kelly Garner of Los Angeles, CA, Brooks Garner of Tampa, FL, Laurie Shasta Fahs of St. Simons, Mark Garner of Asheville, NC and Taylor Hinson of Brunswick. Her great grandchildren are Asa, August, Gabriella Joy Garner and Zeke Fahs. Joy was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh, a son Douglas Garner, a son-in-law, Kyle Hinson, and a grandson, Ryan Hinson.

A service will be held in her memory at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Saturday, February 9, 2013, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Paul Elbert officiating. The family will receive friends at a reception after the service. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers. donations be made to Hospice of the Golden Isles or to the American Heart Association. Particular thanks goes to Home Instead and Hospice for their care during Joy’s last month.