Joy Lynn Pritchard

Joy Lynn Pritchard, age 84, a beloved member of the Nutbush Community, passed away at her residence on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. Funeral services celebrating Joy's life will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 12:00 Noon at Maranatha Baptist Church, with Bro. Tim Smartt officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be held at the church on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 10:30 AM until the time of the service at 12:00 Noon. Burial will follow at Mary's Chapel Cemetery in Ripley, TN.

Joy was born on August 7, 1942, in Haywood County, TN, to the late H.L. “Buck” Dunavant and Sallie Mae Daniels Dunavant. Throughout her 84 years, Joy lived up to her name, bringing joy, happiness, laughter, and love to the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.

There was a special radiance about her, a warmth and happiness that seemed to shine through wherever she went. She had a wonderful way of making others feel welcome, loved, and appreciated. Joy believed that each new day was a blessing from God, and she embraced life with a grateful heart and a joyful spirit. Whether she was spending time with family, enjoying a shopping trip, singing in the church choir, or simply sharing a laugh with a friend, she found happiness in life's everyday moments. Her radiant smile, genuine love for others, and enthusiasm for living were gifts she freely shared with everyone around her.

For many years, Joy worked in the Accounting Department of Best Wade Petroleum in Ripley, Tennessee, where she was known for her dedication and hard work.

Her faith was an important part of her life. As a longtime member of Maranatha Baptist Church in Gates, TN, Joy found great happiness in worship, fellowship, and especially music. She loved to sing in the church choir, lifting her voice in praise to the Lord. Music brought her joy, and sharing that gift with her church family was something she treasured.

Above all, Joy loved her family. Time spent with those she loved was precious to her, and the relationships she shared with family and friends were among her greatest blessings. She leaves behind wonderful memories of a life filled with love, faith, laughter, and a genuine appreciation for the people around her.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents, H.L. “Buck” and Sallie Mae Daniels Dunavant; her two husbands, Joe West and Bud Pritchard; her daughter, Sherry Renee West; and her two sisters, Bobbie Smith and Earnestine Fitzhugh.

She is survived by her stepson, Buddy Pritchard (Carol) of Tampa, Florida; her great-nieces and great-nephews, Beverly Sellers (Jimmy), Joanne Fitzhugh, Courtney Phelps (Shawn), Leslie Gillon (Joey), Jennifer Smith, Lauren Cogdill (Joey), Hollie Sanders (Josh), Chad Fitzhugh (Stacey), and Melissa Sweeney; and her sister-in-law, Louise Bentley.

Serving as pallbearers will be Joey Gillon, Nathan Coleman, Chad Fitzhugh, Adam Haynes, and Jonathan Smartt. Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Sellers and Shawn Phelps.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Maranatha Baptist Church Missionary Fund, 52 Woodville Road, Ripley, TN 38063.