Joy (Josephine) Self

Joy was born at home in Flagstaff, Arizona, on July 21, 1939. She grew up on a small farm in Camp Verde, Arizona. Although their family didn’t have much money, her childhood was rich with love and memories of growing up with her two sisters and little brother, farming, canning, and having adventures on the Verde River.

Joy lived a full life marked with hard work and love. Prior to getting married, Joy attended business college. She married Howard Self on June 6, 1959. They moved to Fruita in 1965 where they raised their four children. She was a devoted mother and homemaker, and her world revolved around her four children. Joy was a long-time cook and baker at Fruita Monument High School, and worked two jobs for a time when needed. Joy worked at Pancho’s Villa restaurant for several years, and eventually bought the restaurant that she owned and operated for over 12 years.

In her retirement years, Joy cherished time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also enjoyed gardening, painting, bowling, sewing, coffee with friends, and weekly visits with her sisters on “sister day.” Joy was known for her quick wit, fierce protection of her children, her Catholic faith, and her frugal nature. Despite many challenges she faced during her life, her kindness and joyful nature, and can-do attitude were apparent to all who met her.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents Martin and Stella Etcheverry, and sister Catherine Dere. She is survived by her sister Martha Johnson (Bill), brother Martin Etcheverry (Lillian), sons Howard Lee Self and Clay Self (Tonya), daughters Sheri Campbell (Sam) and Terri Brewer, nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of her life at the Canyon View Vineyard Chapel on February 21, 2022, at 11:00 am (viewing at 10:00 am).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.callahan-edfast.com for the Self family.