Joy Ward

It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we announce the passing of Joy Ward, a cherished matriarch, beloved friend, and devoted community member. Joy departed this world peacefully on May 15, 2026, at the age of 96, surrounded by her loving family at her home in Halls, TN. Born on December 18, 1929, in Porters Gap, TN, Joy was the beloved daughter of the late Archie Noel and Audrey (Davis) Hastings. She grew up in a close-knit family, sharing her early years with her siblings Glendora Clevenger, Zera Mae Alley, and Wilbur "Brother" Hastings, all of whom predeceased her. Joy was a devoted mother to her children, and though she faced the heartache of losing her daughter, Betty McConnell, and her son, Mickey Ward, her heart remained open and full of love for her surviving children: Donna (Roger) Booker of Hendersonville, TN, Terri Holley of Halls, TN, and Jimbo (Glenda) Ward of Halls, TN. Her legacy also lives on through her 13 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and a blossoming number of great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to her life. Professionally, Joy dedicated many years to Tupperware Manufacturing before finding her true calling as a compassionate hostess and funeral assistant at Halls Funeral Home. Her kind spirit and warm presence provided comfort to many during their times of need. A faithful member of Halls Church of Christ, Joy lived her life grounded in love and service, embodying the values of her faith in every interaction. Her hobbies reflected her zest for life; she found great joy in tending to her garden, where her flowers bloomed as vibrantly as her spirit. Joy was an adventurer at heart, traveling with friends to destinations as far as Bermuda, and she relished every moment spent in the company of her family. Her love for music was another testament to her lively soul, and she cherished listening to bands perform. A service to honor Joy’s remarkable life will be held on May 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Halls Funeral Home, located at 109 N. Church St., Halls, TN. Friends and family are welcome to join in commemorating her legacy and sharing memories of the joy she brought into their lives. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Joy's honor to West Tennessee Children's Home, P.O. Box 10, Springhill, TN 37174, or to the Halls Church of Christ, 220 S Church St., Halls, TN 38040. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Halls Funeral for their support and compassion during this time. Joy Ward’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and community, and she will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.