Mary Joy Gardner Reeves, a vibrant and multifaceted individual, passed away peacefully at home in Summit, Mississippi, on February 14, 2025. Born in McComb on February 21, 1947, Joy lived a life filled with creativity, community involvement, dedication to the arts, and a profound love for animals.

Her journey in the performing arts began early, at eleven, when she played one of the Roses in the play "Roses Have Thorns," igniting a lifelong passion for theater. Her talent shone brightly when she won third place for her original skit at the Pike 4H District Talent Contest the following year.

Not limited to the stage, Joy's artistic talents were recognized at fifteen when she won first prize for her painting at the Magnolia Art Show. That same year, she participated in the chorus for the "Mellerdramer" theater production, showcasing her versatility and love for the arts.

Joy's high school years were marked by achievements. She was a cheerleader at South Pike High School and was selected as a delegate to the Mississippi Youth Congress, reflecting her leadership and school spirit. Her involvement in theater continued with the production "Lock, Stock, and Lipstick." That year, she was named Second Alternate in the Miss Hospitality contest, embodying grace and charm.

Her academic journey took her to the Mississippi State College for Women (MSCW) in 1966 and later to the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) in 1967, where her passion for art flourished. She earned a "Red Ribbon" for her artwork at the Pike County Fair in 1968.

As an art educator, Joy inspired many young artists. Her students received recognition in the Mississippi Scholastic Art Awards contest, and her painting of the Pike County Courthouse at night was displayed at the Mississippi Welcome Center in 1975. Another painting was included in the McComb Junior Auxiliary 1978 Springfest calendar.

Joy's dedication extended beyond her classroom. In 1986, she judged the North Pike Artfest and contributed to the cultural vibrancy of her community by creating backdrops and scenery for Conway Bilbo's and Barbara Lindley's dance recitals. She was a member of the McComb Garden Club. Her professional life was equally diverse. She worked at the Cottage of Flowers in Magnolia, the Pinch Penny Exchange, Gulf South Gallery, and later at the McComb Enterprise Journal and the Magnolia Gazette, where she excelled in selling and creating advertisements.

Joy Gardner Reeves is survived by her daughter, Myra Reeves; her son, John Paul Reeves (Elise); her grandchildren, Jack Reeves and Collins Reeves; her sister, Jinya Lea Gardner Clarke; her brother, Bill Gardner (Paul Warnke); cousin/honorary sister, Lynn Williams; nephews, Graham Clarke (Sharon) and Ryan Clarke; niece, Carla Clarke; and great-nieces, AnnaLea Pettigrew (Kieran) and Abigail Clarke. Her parents, Maurice Gardner and Myra Lee Payne Gardner, predeceased her. She leaves many friends and relatives who will miss her talent and generosity.

Joy Reeves was a beloved teacher, artist, and community member whose legacy of creativity and kindness will be cherished by all who knew her. Her life's work has left an indelible mark on her community and the countless students she inspired throughout her career.

A memorial service and celebration of Joy's life will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, February 21, at Mediator/Redeemer Episcopal Church at 215 North Broadway in McComb, followed by a reception in the Parish Hall.

Joy's family requests that donations be made to McComb Animal Shelter or PALS Rescue in her memory instead of flowers.