Mary Joy Woody Hargette

Joy Woody Hargette, born on August 19, 1929, in Jackson County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the Haywood Lodge & Retirement Center in Waynesville, North Carolina.

Joy cherished her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. She took delight in attending her sons’ many sporting events to cheer them on. She also enjoyed visits with her grandchildren. She was an enthusiastic cook and prepared many delicious meals for her family. Her unwavering support and love for her family were central to her life, and she fostered many cherished memories with them. She consistently spent time reading and studying the Bible and was an active member of Covenant Presbyterian Church. Joy also spent time working in the banking industry where she made lasting connections with her colleagues and clients alike. For many years she enjoyed walking. In her spare time, she was an avid fan of solving crossword puzzles. 

Joy is survived by her two sons, John Woody Hargette (Beth) and Paul Hudson Hargette (Andrea). She was a proud grandmother to four grandchildren: Ashley Hargette Schroeder (Brandon), Madison Hargette Shreve (John), Paul Hudson Hargette, Jr., and Noah Raye Hargette. She is also survived by her niece Deborah Mahaffey (Stan), niece Tammy Patsey, and nephew Dan Fisher (Ty).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. William Harvey Woody and Esther Barlow Woody. Joy was also preceded by her beloved husband, Rupert Hartsell Hargette, who passed away in 2003, and two sisters, Marjorie Woody Fisher and Betty Jean Buchanan.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville (296 North Main Street) with Reverend Larry Jones officiating. The family will receive friends from noon until service time at the funeral home. The service will be followed by a reception on site. Live streaming of the service will be available.

Joy Woody Hargette will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her. Her spirit will forever remain in their hearts.

The family is so appreciative of the staff and caregivers at The Haywood Lodge and Retirement Center for the exceptional care and loving support shown to Joy in the last 18 months. The family would also like to extend thanks to Suky Clark for her assistance and companionship with Joy prior to her time at Haywood Lodge, as well as the many family, friends and neighbors who visited and checked in on her.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Covenant Presbyterian Church, 166 Pigeon Street, Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Mrs. Hargette has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville