Joy Ann Messina entered into eternal glory on Wednesday, January 25, 2018. She was born May 21,1957 to her parents Nicholas J. Messina and Florence L. Messina in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Joy is survived by her brother Nicholas J. Messina III, her sister in law Nora P. Messina, her niece Nicole Johnson, her nephew Nicholas J. Messina IV, her great nephew Maverick Johnson and her great niece Giovanna Johnson. Joy moved to Mesa, Arizona in 2000 where she attended the Marc Community Center in Mesa, and later the Neely House, Gilbert, AZ.
Joy lived a very sheltered life for 56 years. After the death of her parents, she moved into an Adults With Disabilities Home under the care of Susan Colby. She endured a difficult transition period and proceeded to flourish in her new environment. She learned new skills, developed a new confidence, and achieved a level of independence which all thought to be impossible based on her previous 56 years of life. She truly became a butterfly who emerged from a long sleep in her cocoon.
Despite her mental and physical limitations Joy always found enjoyment in simple things. She had a good sense of humor, she loved talking to everyone she came in contact with. She took pride in doing chores and striving to achieve goals and independence within her limitations.
She will be missed by many for her kindness to others, her sense of humor, and for her strength.
There will be service from 6pm to 8pm on Tuesday Jan. 30th at Mountain View Funeral Home, 7900 East Main Street Mesa, AZ.
Everyone that knew Joy will carry her memory in their heart.
My sincerest condolences to you all in the loss of Joy. She sounds like a very special person, apparently kind and with a sense of humor.
May God bless her and keep her in the palm of His hand.
Sincerely Maggie
Nick, Nora and family: Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Love Mary Ann and Frank Lombardi
Very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Rita Richter from Calgary, Alberta
Generations are born, grow, and go on to a glorious life.
Joy Ann has reached that ultimate goal. I will always remember
the girl she was being with her parents, and aunts, (especially Aunt Gert) and relatives in her swimming pool on Higgins Avenue. Always laughing and happy. She always knew love and gave love. Joy Ann must be so happy being with her Mom and Dad again. A beautiful life…..
Gail Johnson (cousin)
It was a honor and a privilege to know Joy! I will truly miss coming in my friend Susan Colby’s home and Joy always coming up to me and saying I miss you girl! Also when I got to color with Joy she always tell me to color inside the lines Stacey! Lol You will truly be missed! Fly with the angels now my friend!
Joy will be missed with the many potluck dinner with us. The guys alway love to hear Joys newest craft she was working on. Timmy, Cody and I will truely Miss this Girl, as she would fondly call me.
Anita, Timmy, Cody