Bettie Joy

September 20, 1933 – August 12, 2026

Bettie Joy, nearly 93, a long-time resident of Arlington, Virginia, died peacefully in her home on August 12, 2026 of heart failure. Bettie was a native of Enterprise, Alabama, attended the University of Alabama and was a member of Tri Delta, serving as a past president.

Bettie’s husband of 52 years, James Anderson Joy of Seattle, Washington, predeceased her in November 2010. Bettie accompanied Jim to four naval air stations within the United States during his Navy career. She lived in various locations within Northern Virginia and settled in Arlington in 1974. During the late 1970s and 1980s she worked as a systems analyst developing and improving computer programs.

For over 50 years, Bettie was a faithful and active member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. She served on the Vestry, the Flower Guild, Greeters, and the Pastoral Care Commission. Bettie was a long-time member of the Buildings & Grounds Commission and was instrumental in the creation of St. Peter’s Memorial Garden. For many years, Bettie organized the annual Seder Dinner; she loved participating in Bible Study, the EARS reading group, and Shrine Mont retreats.

Bettie was also an active member of The Neighbors’ Club, the Northern Virginia Alliance League (serving as a past president), CBS, the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter of Tri Delta, and an enthusiastic participant in playing golf with the Ninettes and Ladies’ Bridge at Washington Golf & Country Club.

Survivors include two daughters, Margaret Joy of Hamilton, VA and Jane Morrison (Gregg) of Arlington, VA; five grandchildren, Colin and Andy Rochford, Rachel Morrison Huennekens (Preston), Anna Morrison Keen (Peyton), and Lacey Morrison Lang (Zach); plus, one great grandson and a great granddaughter due in September.

A service celebrating Bettie’s life will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, 10:00 a.m., at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Arlington. A reception will immediately follow at Washington Golf & Country Club (11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.). Graveside services will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date (to be determined).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 4250 N. Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22207.