She was born July 26, 1926, in Sabinal, Texas, to the late Roy and Ila Deason Word.
She graduated from Bandera High School and attended A & I College, Kingsville, Texas. Joy made Dallas her home as she pursued a career of 35 years as a flight attendant on both foreign and domestic flights.
During the Vietnam War, she flew on chartered flights transporting military between the U.S. and Southeast Asia. She was a leader in promoting and negotiating working standards for flight attendants.
With a zest for life, great sense of humor, and a most generous heart, she brought true joy and love to family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lewis R. Ross and brother, John D. Word. Joy is survived by her sisters, Sue Sostarich and Nina Pierce; sister-in-law, Joyce Word; numerous nieces and nephews.
