Joy Belle (Johnston) Walker, a long-time resident of Dyersburg, TN, died Monday, June 1, 2020 at Harborview Health Systems of Dyersburg.

Joy was born on September 16, 1931, in Savannah, TN, to the late Loranzie and Stella Wolfe Johnston. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren affectionately knew Mrs. Walker as "Momma Joy." Her nickname took hold, and she quickly became known by her descriptive name by all who knew and loved her. As a mother, she was a spiritual role model, living her faith, being prayerful and joyful, even as she faced illness. She shared joy and kindness freely, as those who ever spent time with her will attest. She loved her Lord, her husband, and her family, and was happiest when in their midst.

Joy was an avid volunteer in the community, serving as a Pink Lady at Dyersburg Regional Medical Center, holding various offices in the Medical Auxiliary, and mentoring in the Dyer County Literacy Program. Mrs. Walker also was a skilled seamstress, quilter, and crocheter, gifting most of her works. She was happy to quietly contribute her time to causes like The American Cancer Society and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Private funeral services will be at 12 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, 2020 in the chapel of Dyersburg Funeral Home with the Rev. Ron Lovins officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery.

Survivors include her two daughters, Judy Patton (Ronnie) of Dyersburg, TN and Janet Roberts (Keith) of Hendersonville, TN; three sons, Steve Walker (Gena) and Tim Walker (Cathy) all of Dyersburg, TN and Roger Walker (Christy) of Union City, TN; a sister, Retha Hodge of Warrenville, IL; fifteen grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; her sister-in-law, Faye Johnston of Dyersburg, TN; and her dedicated caregivers, Rhonda Thompson and Jean Carroll.

In addition to her parents, Joy was preceded in death by her husband, Wendell Walker; two sisters, June Davison and Joel Hubbard; a brother, Doty Johnston; and a grandson, Samuel Walker.

Pallbearers will be Tobey Patton, Todd Patton, Matthew Walker, Clay Walker, Mickey Mangrum and Andy Jayroe. Honorary pallbearers will be Matthew Jones, Brandon Riles, Colton Gramse and Randy Smith.