Joy Spain

She is lovingly remembered by her three children: Cynthia Spain McCormick (Ralph), Brian David Spain, and Cheryl Spain Resha (Toby). Joy’s legacy continues through her four grandchildren—Ian Hunter McCormick, Rachel Elizabeth McCormick, Allyson Resha Najmi (Paymun), and Alexa Resha Bennett (Tyler)—as well as her two great-grandchildren, Mila Ray Najmi and Luca Mohsen Najmi.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents, Dan Palford Gilley and Betty Eva French, and her husband, Archie Ray Spain. As the third of eight siblings growing up in Cannon County, TN, she leaves behind her beloved siblings: Jean Goodman, Vivian Thomas, Max Gilley (Debbie), and Gary Gilley (Melissa).

Known affectionately as Joy, Mama, Grammy, and GG, her heart always belonged to her role as a mother, with being a grandmother a close second.

After graduating from high school in Woodbury, TN, where she was a dedicated guard on the basketball team, Joy made her way to Nashville. She worked in various roles including a dentist's office, Sears, the medical examiner’s office, and at the YMCA after-school care. Joy cherished family game nights, especially when playing Scrabble, and loved spirited discussions. Thanksgiving was her favorite holiday, filled with family and delicious food. She enjoyed attending SEC basketball tournaments and occasionally joined friends for March Madness games. Joy often traveled to Florida and had a particular fondness for butter pecan ice cream. In her later years, she found comfort in her home, sharing her days with her beloved dog, Edna.

In honor of her generous spirit, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a local Meals on Wheels program, continuing Joy’s legacy of caring for others.

A celebration of life for Joy will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Forest Lawn Funeral Home in Goodlettsville, TN.