Emmett Ralston Joy

Major Emmett Ralston Joy, age 94 of McArthur, Ohio passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at Jenkins Care Community in Wellston surrounded by his loving family.

Emmett was born February 1, 1931, in New Cumberland, West Virginia to Emmett Reuben Joy and Garnet Kaylor Joy. A passionate aviator from a young age, he earned his pilot’s license before his driver’s license. He joined the United State Marine Corp in 1951, serving four years and attaining the rank of Sergeant. In 1956, driven by his love of flying, he enlisted in the United State Air Force.

While stationed at Lockbourne Air Force Base, Emmett met the love of his life Lois Joanne France and her young son James Steven. The two married in 1964 and later welcomed a daughter Erin Elaine, in 1971. Emmett served in Vietnam as a Navigator Bombardier aboard C-123 aircraft as part of Operation Ranch Hand. For his service, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Force Commendation Metal, the National Defense Service Metal and several other honors. He retired with a rank of Major following his final assignment at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton.

In 1975, Emmett and Joanne fulfilled their dream of moving to the country and found the perfect home and property in Vinton County, Ohio. Always an avid reader and life-long learner, Emmett became a dedicated member of the Friends of the Library in McArthur and served on the board of the Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library until the age of 92.

To supplement his retirement, Emmett founded Joy Construction, specializing in slate roofing. His craftsmanship graces many homes and churches throughout the region, including The Dairy Barn in Athens. He officially retired in 1996.

In the late 1980’s, Emmett took up woodcarving, creating beautiful works of art. He carved at many local festivals including R.O.A.R. at the Hope School House where he carved tiny owls and mini chickens for children. He was a member of several woodcarving groups and a friend to fellow woodcarver Ora Anderson.

Above all, Emmett will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Generous to a fault, gentle and kind, poet and lover of nature, the sort of man every daughter dreams of and every grandchild treasures. He was a patient educator, a loving presence and the heart of his family. So wonderful a man that two grandsons are named after him.

Emmett is survived by his children, James Steven (Gloria) France of Naples, FL and Erin Elaine (Richard) Griffith of McArthur. Grandchildren Ryan James (Diana) France of Dayton, Sean Steven (Brooke) France of Kettering, Jody Christine Brooks, Jennifer Diana (Garrett) Betts and Cameron Emmett Brooks all of McArthur. Great grandchildren Levi, Miles, Mia, Alden, Katie and Emmett. Nephews Terry Chamberlain, Jim Joy and Jason Joy and sister-in-law Shirley Joy all of New Cumberland, WV and niece Melody Carroll of Williamstown, WV.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lois Joanne, his brother Terry, sisters Justine and Gwendolyn, nieces Jacqueline and Carol Anne and his granddaughter Katie Joanne who, along with his wife, will rest beside forever.

Funeral will be Friday, June 20, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Cardaras Funeral Home, 201 West High Street in McArthur. Interment to follow at Temple Cemetery, Albany Ohio with Reverend Jerry R. Griffith officiating with military honors by the United States Air Force and United State Marine Corp. Friends may visit from 6 to 8 pm Thursday at the funeral home.

All are invited to a memorial reception directly following the funeral at the Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library at 120 North Market Street in McArthur from 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

The family would like to thank the wonderful and caring staff at Jenkins Care Community, particularly Peggy, Ron, April, Cyndi and Randy for making dad so comfortable and well-cared for. Also, Roger and other loving hospice staff at National Church Residences.

The family suggests making memorial contributions to the Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library, 120 North Market Street, McArthur, Ohio 45651 in Emmett Joy’s name.