It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Joy Elizabeth Whitby, of Hanover, Maryland, on Saturday, March 2, 2024.
Joy’s radiant spirit and boundless generosity touched many lives. She is survived by her Beloved Husband and devoted partner of 54 years, Ronald Whitby. Their enduring love story began in 1963, and together, they navigated the challenges and joys of life, with Joy standing as a steadfast companion through Ron’s 50 years of service to our country in the United States Navy, and later the federal government. They had many wonderful adventures together all over the world, and Joy soaked up the culture wherever she went, learning as much as possible and adding many delicious dishes to her already amazing culinary repertoire.
Joy is also survived by Loving Daughters Christine Smith, Heather Whitby, and Catherine Whitby; Dear Sisters Jane Culley and Elaine Bender; Cherished Grandchildren Benjamin Smith and Elizabeth Smith; Kevin Smith, and many nieces and nephews.
An avid gardener, Joy was an active member of the Fort Meade Garden Club, where she cultivated not only beautiful gardens, but also lasting friendships. Her passion for gardening was a testament to her belief in the beauty of life and the importance of nurturing growth and joy in the world around her. She loved birds and ensured that the wildlife that frequented her feeders was taken care of. Outside of gardening and nature, her hobbies included Bible study, jigsaw puzzles, Japanese needlepoint, and spending time with her loved ones.
Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories during a visitation for Joy on Friday, March 8, 2024, from 11:00AM to 2:00PM at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park, 7250 Washington Blvd, Elkridge, MD 21075. A funeral service will immediately follow, beginning at 2PM.
A visitation will be held on Monday, March 11, 2024 from 1PM to 2PM at Grabowski Funeral Home, 75 Memorial Drive, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972. A committal service and burial will be held on Monday, March 11, 2024, at 2PM at Schuylkill Memorial Park, 75 Memorial Drive, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Special Olympics. https://support.specialolympics.org/a/donate-now-1?sourceid=1050923
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