E. Joy Ward, 93, of Bronson, passed away peacefully October 17, 2025 at home surrounded by her children. During the last years of her life, Joy was able to remain in her home because of the loving care of her son.
A service will be held Wednesday, October 22 at 11:00 a.m. at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson.
A visitation will be held Tuesday, October 21 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson. Interment will take place following the service at Sorter Cemetery.
Joy was born May 28,1932 in Ovid Township to Millard “Melvin” and Ruth (Bussing) Barnes. Joy attended Sorter and Scoville rural schools and two years at Coldwater High School, before coming to Bronson High School in 1948. After graduating in 1950, she worked as a secretary at Shaw Shoe Factory in Coldwater for seven years and then attended Western Michigan University for two years, receiving a Rural Teaching Certificate.
Joy taught for two years in Berrien County, was a substitute teacher, and taught nursery school in Bronson from 1975 to 1981. She was also a secretary at Somerlott Real Estate during this time. She retired from working as a claims secretary at AAA in Coldwater in 1993.
Joy was a lifetime member of the Bronson United Methodist Church joining in 1948. She served as choir director for over 50 years and was active in many aspects of the church. Since childhood, Joy had a natural talent for singing. She was a member of the Velvetones, a women’s vocal quartet group that performed throughout the area in the 1950s. She sang at many weddings, funerals, and community events throughout her life.
In addition to singing, Joy enjoyed Bible Study, antiquing, playing games, sewing, crafting, and traveling. But her biggest joy was spending time with her children, grandchildren, and extended family.
Joy had a quick and clever sense of humor that she kept until the end of her life. She was outgoing and lived up to her name, always laughing and bringing joy to those around her. Joy had a strong faith and sense of right and wrong and was not afraid to speak up. Her thoughtfulness, generosity, and love towards others will inspire us always.
Joy is survived by her children Kellie DeLuca of Fremont, MI, Terri Plotas of Battle Creek, Thomas Tracy of Bronson; sisters-in-law, Gail Barnes of Troy and Norine Barnes of Sturgis; her granddaughters, Stephanie Plotas of Arlington, Virginia and Erica (Paul) Franchina of Livonia; special cousin, Joan Casterline, and many nieces and nephews.
Joy was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Richard and Donald Barnes, Jeanette Newberry, Charles Barnes, Joan Stout, and John, Roger, and Max Barnes; her former spouses, Keith Tracy and Billy Ward; and niece and nephews, Joy Lynn Fisher, Jim Stout, and Mike Barnes.
A special thank you to the second-floor nurses at Insight Hospital and Medical Center in Coldwater for their wonderful and supportive care of Joy and her children.
Memorials may be directed to the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) or the Branch District Library-Bronson Branch.
Comments