Joy Smith

Joy Lorraine Smith, age 94, of Sharon, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 29, 2025.

Joy was born on July 2, 1930, in Harvard, Illinois, to Otto and Violet (Jacobs) Miethke. She grew up in Sharon, where she attended Sharon Grade School and graduated from Sharon High School in 1948. A proud cheerleader in her youth, Joy carried her spirited and joyful nature with her throughout her life.

In 1949, Joy married the love of her life, James Smith, Sr. Together they built a life rooted in love, family, and shared dreams. The couple purchased land in Hayward, Wisconsin, where they vacationed for many years before building their retirement home. It was there they enjoyed their golden years until Jim’s passing.

After his death, Joy relocated to Janesville, Wisconsin, before eventually returning to her beloved hometown of Sharon to be closer to her family and church community. She was a faithful member of Christ Lutheran Church, where her presence will be deeply missed.

Joy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Her kindness, selflessness, and warm heart made everyone around her feel special. Joy found her greatest joy in caring for others—especially through her love of cooking. She delighted in preparing meals tailored to each person’s tastes, never hesitating to go the extra mile to bring a smile to someone’s face.

Joy’s favorite color was blue, and she had a deep love of dancing, which reflected her graceful, vibrant spirit.

She is survived by her son, James Smith, Jr.; grandchildren James (Janine) Smith, Jason Smith, Christopher Smith, and Kathi Quillman; great-grandchildren Lilyanna Smith, Amanda (Patrick) Adams, Jordan Quillman, and Brooklynn Quillman; her sister Betty Chism; sister-in-law Dolores Miethke; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Smith, Sr.; her parents Otto and Violet Miethke, her brothers Norman (Barbara) Miethke and Donald Miethke; and her brother-in-law Bill Chism.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 11:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 PM at Christ Lutheran Church, 228 Martin St., Sharon, WI. Burial will follow at North Sharon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Christ Lutheran Church.

For more information, please contact Toynton Funeral Home at (262) 275-2171.