Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of Beloved Community Figure Joyce Johnson

Chattanooga Says Goodbye to a Vibrant Soul

Chattanooga is feeling a little emptier today as we say farewell to the unforgettable Joyce Johnson, who passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 13, 2024. At the age of 79, Joyce left this world exactly as she lived— on her own terms, no chemo, no endless doctor visits, and surrounded by the love of her family.

In her final days, Joyce made sure to be surrounded by loved ones, sharing laughter, heartfelt thoughts, and her trademark straightforwardness. If you knew Joyce, you’d know she never shied away from expressing her opinions, often saying, “Everyone is entitled to my opinion.” It was a sentiment she lived by, and one that certainly kept her family on their toes, with her husband, Johnny, and their children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren coming together for one last family gathering. The youngest of the crew, just two years old, couldn’t care less about the serious conversations—he was far too busy entertaining himself with a bunch of cat toys!

Joyce’s journey began as Linda Joyce Johnson in Knoxville, and she was raised in Oak Ridge. She found her soulmate in her high school sweetheart, Johnny, and together they wrote a love story sprinkled with humor and heartfelt moments over their incredible 60 years of marriage. One time, she pulled off an unforgettable surprise for Johnny’s 40th birthday with a 60-year-old belly dancer performing right in front of his coworkers. Johnny, never one to be outdone, orchestrated a mock funeral procession for Joyce’s milestone birthday, parading her on the back of a flatbed truck while blaring funeral music through loudspeakers. Now that’s a couple that knows how to have fun!

A Life Full of Love and Laughter

Joyce wasn’t just about good times—she was a woman of many passions. She was a trailblazer, founding a neighborhood swim league that outshone even the competitive Chattanooga leagues. Amateur comedy was another pastime she excelled at, famously winning a contest in the area while also boasting an impressive success rate at casinos. What a character!

For weekends, Joyce and Johnny took to the water on their shimmering 70-foot houseboat affectionately named the “Tax Shelter.” Their boat was not just a vessel; it was a vibrant hub where they entertained friends and hosted the annual Rock the Boat concert for four years in a row—something that brought the community together like nothing else.

After retiring from her playful pursuits, Joyce took on a successful tax preparation business where her goal was to ensure every single client got back every legal cent possible. For Joyce, her work was not just a job; it was a chance to form lifelong friendships, and she valued her clients deeply. If you were a friend, Joyce didn’t just know you—she admired you, and those connections ran incredibly deep.

The Heart of a Community

Anyone who crossed paths with Joyce likely found her refreshingly honest, often greeting newcomers with a quip or bold comment. It was a unique charm that helped her cultivate a lively, loyal friendship circle. She brought joy and authenticity into the lives of those she loved, and anyone who ever met her had a tale to tell.

While her passing leaves a significant void, memories of her generosity and love for Christmas linger on. Known for organizing family trips, including cruises, Las Vegas getaways, and magical Disneyland adventures, she brightened the lives of many. As she transitions to the next great adventure, it’s speculated that her lingering regrets might include missing the birth of her sixth great-grandchild, witnessing Tennessee beat Georgia, and one last cigarette with her beloved Johnny.

Join Us to Celebrate Joyce

To honor her vibrant spirit, a Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, November 19, at 6 p.m. at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. Friends and family are invited to gather starting at 4 p.m. to share thoughts and memories of this remarkable woman.

Joyce Johnson may have left this world, but the stories, laughter, love, and bold opinions she shared will echo in the hearts of those she touched for years to come.