Joy Ann Smith

Joy Ann (Mitchell) Smith, 92, of Headwaters passed away Thursday, July 4, 2024 at Brookdale Senior Living in Staunton.

She was born in Churchville, April 18, 1932, a daughter of the late Gilbert and Lillie Kate (Armstrong) Mitchell. She married John Clyde Smith, who predeceased her on February 10, 2008.

A devout Christian, Joy was a member of the former Headwaters Presbyterian Church and will be remembered as a mother who always worked to instill Biblical teachings into her children’s lives. Musically inclined from an early age, Joy played multiple instruments including the piano, mandolin, harmonica, and especially the guitar. She enjoyed playing music throughout the county at lawn parties and church events. Joy was also well known in the community as a great cook and many enjoyed her biscuits, applesauce, peanut butter cookies, and cakes. In her spare time, she loved traveling with Dawn, listening to her favorite group-the Carter Family, and raising her flower and vegetable gardens. Additionally, she was a faithful member of the McDowell Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary. Above all, Joy will be remembered as a kind and loving mother, who encouraged her children and provided much stability to her family.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Robert Lee “Sonny” Smith; and daughter, Jean Higgins.

She is survived by her daughter, Dawn Armstrong of Headwaters; grandchildren, Kenton Smith, Katie Townsend and husband, Chad, Hunter Higgins, and Shannon Higgins; as well as great-grandchildren, Carson, Kenslee, Skyler, Ayden, Audrey, Johnathan and Haigin.

A graveside service will be held 11 a.m., Monday, July 8, 2024 in Headwaters Cemetery with Rev. Beth Pyles officiating

Active pallbearers will be Kenton Smith, Chad Townsend, Carson Townsend, Steve Varner, G.W. Obaugh, and Hunter Higgins.

Friends wishing to pay their respects may call on the family at Dawn’s home located on the Cowpasture.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Headwaters Cemetery, c/o Elmo Varner, 14952 Highland Turnpike, Head Waters, Va. 24442.