Willie Joyce Howard Grimm, known by all as Joy, peacefully entered heaven on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the age of 86 after a brave battle to recover from head trauma she sustained in an accidental fall.

Born in Annapolis, Maryland, on January 4, 1940.

Survived by her husband of 65 years, Ray; her four children, Valerie (T) Wright, Lisa (Don) Price, Ray Jr. (Nany) Grimm, Todd Grimm, her daughter-in-love, Alecia Grimm & beloved godson, Michael Bartholomew.

She leaves behind 22 grandchildren: Auna, Brenna, Seth, Rachael, Barrett, Caleb, Jachin, Ethan, Elizabeth, Wesley, Win, Cory, Gabriella, Darrow, Madison, Austin, Myron, Stella, Parker, Carson, Scarlett, and Isabel; as well as 26 great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by her parents, Vera, and Alvin Howard; three sisters; a granddaughter, Shawna Grimm; and great-grandson, Fletcher Wright.

She epitomized the role of the family patriarch. Her life was one marked by warmth, faith, and true love of people. She never met a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcome. Wherever she went, Joy shared the hope found in Jesus Christ, leaving a lasting impression through her joyful spirit, warm smile, and sincere interest in others.

As a young lady Joy worked with her cousin at Sally's Beauty Salon, after graduating high school, she attended the University of Georgia.

It was love at first sight when Joy & Ray met, which quickly blossomed into a lifelong journey together. Their marriage became the foundation for decades of shared faith, partnership, and love.

Together, they built an extraordinarily successful career with Tupperware. Through hard work and Joy's natural ability to connect with people, they developed a thriving business that earned international recognition. As a team, they led an organization of more than 500 team members, forming a multitude of lifelong friendships along the way.

Retirement did not slow Joy down. She delighted in investing in the lives of her grandchildren while continuing to serve her community. As the Activities Director for the Cherokee Senior Center, she brought laughter and meaningful experiences to local seniors. Joy also enjoyed representing Nest Entertainment, DK Books, and Z Bloom—not just as a business, but to meet new people and build relationships.

One of Joy's favorite pastimes was treasure hunting. She loved going to her favorite "boutique shops" with her daughters and friends. These simple pleasures created treasured memories and deep family bonds.

More than any professional achievement, Joy's greatest legacy is the love she poured into her family and the faith she freely shared. Her life was a beautiful testimony of kindness, generosity, hospitality, and faith.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to:

• MUST Ministries: https://mustministries.org

• No Longer Bound: https://nolongerbound.com