Joy Johnson Griffin

JOY JOHNSON-GRIFFIN, 63, of Little Rock, passed away Friday, Jan. 6, 2017. Preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Henry and Lucile Johnson, she is survived by her husband of 27 years, Gary Griffin; brother, Matt Johnson; her nephews and nieces and her dog, "Sunshine." Joy was born Oct. 30, 1953 in Little Rock and attended Little Rock schools, graduating from Parkview High School in 1972. She was a graduate of the University of Memphis, earning a Master's degree in research. Joy had a wide variety of interests, including arts and crafts, cooking, trout fishing, gardening, horseback riding and other activities done outdoors. She was also known for her generous hugs and practical jokes. In her youth, she helped her Dad with his magic shows, and she loved to dance. Over the past few years, as Joy's disease progressed and her world became smaller and less mobile, Joy found interest and joy in the smallest of things, never complaining and always ready to share her bright smile and that laugh. Joy lived life to the end with grace, dignity, strength and humor. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to her doctors, hospice nurses and in-home caregivers. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 10 from 6-8 p.m. at Little Rock Funeral, 8801 Knoedl Court (NW corner I-630 and Barrow Road). The graveside Celebration of Life service will be Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 10 a.m. at Roselawn Memorial Park, officiated by Rev. Linda Huggins. In lieu of flowers, Joy's family requests that memorials be made to Hospice Home Care, 2200 S. Bowman Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72211. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501) 224-2200. Joy's online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.