Born March 21st, 1957, in Bloomfield Hills, MI, Joy was the daughter of James Patrick Tomlinson and Joy Ann Tomlinson (Benesh). Joy is survived by her three children: Charles Aycock McLendon (Caroline Healy), 29; James Patrick McLendon, 26; and Anne Tomlinson McLendon 24.
Joy spent her life in the service of others and her community. She had a passion for gardening, early childhood education, and of course her own children. She was a steadfast friend to many, with a generous heart and a quick wit. A master hostess, she enjoyed having large parties, fundraisers, book clubs, and welcoming traveling friends into her home. She loved chocolate, orchids, the theater, and the arts.
Joy graduated from Sacred Heart in Bloomfield Hills, MI in 1975, where she was captain of the swim team and field hockey team and the class president her senior year. In 1979, Joy graduated from Trinity College where she was a comparative literature major, and an avid competitor and captain of the swim team. Following graduation, she worked at Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company before attending the Darden School of Business and receiving an MBA in 1985. She later worked at PaineWebber & Co. from, and finished her career working at Metal Working Lubricants, her father’s company. Her hard working nature and generosity were well known by all she worked with.
Joy had a zest for learning and applying that knowledge to improve the organizations she cherished. During her time at the Garden Club of Lawrence, Joy held multiple positions, including President, Vice President and Chair of Membership, and won several awards for her work at the Garden Club. She was a member of the New York Junior League for over 20 years where she served on the Board of Managers as Finance Manager. At the Episcopal School, Joy was President of the Board of Trustees for 10 years (2000-2010) during which time she was a pivotal part of the appointment of Judith Blanton as Head of School. More than anything, Joy loved her children and always looked for ways to support them.
In addition to the family members mentioned above, Joy is survived by her brothers Robert Tomlinson (Carolyn Whiteman), John Tomlinson (Carole Smith) and Daniel Tomlinson (Lucinda Rose) and their children. She was predeceased by her father, James Patrick Tomlinson Senior; her mother, Joy Ann Tomlinson; her step-mother, Mary Lou Tomlinson; and her brother, James Patrick Tomlinson Jr.
A memorial service will be held for immediate family members and a larger remembrance will occur at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to:
Cure PSP
Children’s Aid
https://www.childrensaidnyc.org
Dress for Success
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