Joy Carol Armbruster

Joy Carol Armbruster, 81 departed this life on July 2, 2026, in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She was born on November 4, 1944, to Roy and Althea (Stewart) Mathews. Joy was raised on her family's farm near Ozark, Arkansas and it was here that she developed an early love and appreciation for nature. She graduated from County Line High School and married her husband David Armbruster, September 1, 1962. They spent their early married life in Caulksville where they had a small farm. In 1971, they moved to Fort Smith, where they made their home and remained lifelong members of the community.

Some of Joy’s most meaningful work was serving refugees through the Resettlement Department of the Adult Education Center. Through this work, she formed many wonderful and lasting friendships.

Joy loved to travel and she also found great pleasure in making meals for friends, family, and AWANA groups at the former Immanuel Baptist Church.

Of all the roles she held, those she treasured most were wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Joy had the unique ability to make anyone she encountered feel fully known and loved. Her family attributes this quality to her strong Christian faith which guided her life and character. She loved without condition and served others with quiet grace. Her kindness left a lasting impression on countless lives, and her legacy will continue through the love she so freely gave.

Joy is survived by her husband, David Armbruster of Fort Smith; her daughters, Tracy Armbruster of Little Rock and Amanda Fry and her husband, David, of Fort Smith; and her beloved grandson, Blake Bulger of Fayetteville. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Susan Simpson of Pensacola, Florida; Beth Mathews, Holly Mathews, and Brian Mathews of White Hall, Arkansas; and John Paul and Cissie Pendergrass of Peter Pender, Arkansas, along with many other cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Althea Mathews and brother Gary Mathews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 10, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center located at 1000 Fianna Way in Fort Smith. A eulogy will be shared at 3:30 p.m. In honor of Joy’s favorite color, feel free to incorporate purple into your attire. Funeral arrangements are being coordinated by Edwards Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or a charity of your choice.