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Joy Darbyshire, 87, formerly of Washington Court House, Ohio, died on Wednesday, December 25, 2024 at home in Santa Monica, California where she had been residing with her son and family since being diagnosed with dementia in 2012.
Joy was born August 31, 1937 in Sabina, Ohio to Gertrude and J. Meredith Darbyshire. She attended high school at Columbus School for Girls and graduated from Wilmington High School. Her college years consisted of graduating from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri and attending Parsons School of Design in New York City. She also enjoyed her time living in Boston, Massachusetts and Bermuda in her early adulthood.
After a whirlwind of travel and adventure, Joy chose to settle in Washington Court House where she just loved “tootling around” the town. She worked as a real estate broker and property manager for a large part of her adult life, eventually serving as an officer in the Cincinnati area Women’s Council of Realtors. Always wanting to stay connected with her creative side, she also volunteered at the Columbus Museum of Art.
Joy simply loved people and had a bubbly, truly unique personality. She loved to socialize with her friends through bridge clubs, golf outings, going to plays, attending lecture series, and celebrating the Fair Days every summer. Those who were blessed to really know Joy will remember her unbridled laughter, playful humor and generous heart. But far above all else, Joy was a loving and dedicated mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother.
She is survived by her son Mark Darbyshire Woods and his wife Michelle Denise Woods; and grandson John Solomon Woods, all of Santa Monica, California.
A private memorial burial service will be held this spring at Sabina Cemetery (Sabina, Ohio). For more information and to send condolences, please contact: darbywood@me.com
