Mark Brian Joy

On January 24, 2024, we said goodbye to one of Richmond’s best loved friends, icons, and brightest lights. Mark Joy. As we grieve this loss, we can remember how much goodness and friendship he brought to all who crossed his path. Mark’s charisma and good humor were matched only by his ability to empathize, to motivate and to encourage others. Mark spoke softly in a way that was both charmingly intimate and engaging, and he had a sly smile that would slowly reveal itself like a sunrise. He was funny, kind, and supportive and a believer in both small and large miracles. He was a solitary soul, but genuine, true, courageous, and forthright, and a friend and mentor to many. He was a searcher and a poet, a teacher and a student, an artist and a friend. All who knew and loved Mark as a friend, as an acquaintance, or as an actor on the screen will remember his handsome and contagious smile, his wisdom, and the lift of his eyebrow. Beyond Mark's kind and gentle spirit, he had countless accomplishments as an actor, a writer, a producer, a teacher and more. Included among his hundreds of acting credits were his appearances in Matlock, Dogma, the Last of the Mohicans, Pecker, and My Name is Bill W., not to mention, the Byrd Theatre’s hilarious anti-litter PSA where he reminds us with comedic gravitas, “This trash should NOT be in movie theaters.” He is also widely known in Virginia as the unforgettable spokesman for Sheehy Ford, the comically erudite, academic price-slashing “Mark Down.” In addition, Mark wrote, produced, and appeared in three short movies Where There's a Will, Beast of Burden, and Border Town.. Mark Brian Joy was born July 31,1950 to Ralph and Harriett Joy and spent his childhood in Iowa and Northern Virginia. He was an outstanding athlete and he loved fishing, biking, kayaking and immersing himself in the beauty of the natural world. His brother Tony Joy and sister Carol Joy predeceased him. Mark is survived by his dear friend Leslie Borman, brothers Tim Joy (Kate) and Dan Joy, nephews Matthew and Ethan Joy, and nieces Lillie and Amanda Joy. Mark also leaves behind numerous dear friends as a long-time friend of Bill W. and in the acting community, at the Carytown Starbucks, and all over Richmond. At Mark's request there will be no service. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Remember him when taking a walk or drive along Pony Pasture by the James River, a place close to Mark's heart. "I was loved by family and friends and I hope I loved them back well enough. I always had enough even when I worried I wouldn't...thank you!" - Mark Joy