Catherine Joy Jendze

Catherine Joy Jendze, known affectionately as Joy to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2023, just shy of her 87th birthday. Born on November 28, 1936, in Philadelphia, PA, Joy's life was a tapestry of love, creativity, and service, woven with the threads of her kind and generous spirit. She departed from this world in Fountain Inn, SC, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and compassion.

Joy was the beloved daughter of the late Esther Guinan and John McHenry. She loved her siblings Margie Collins, the late Dorothy Woods, and the late Edward Guinan. Her life was enriched by the joys of family, a theme that would resonate throughout her years.

In her youth, Joy attended high school where she cultivated a love for language that would later blossom into a passion for writing. She married her soulmate, the late Arnis Jendze, and together they embarked on a journey of love and partnership. Though Arnis predeceased her, the memories they created continued to provide comfort and joy to those who knew them.

Joy's family was her pride and joy. She was a devoted mother to Sandra (Bill) Nevels, Tina (Tim) Townsend, Lisa (Lan) Nix, the late Mark Jendze, and the late Andrea Jendze. Her role as a grandmother was one she cherished deeply, sharing her love with grandchildren Amanda Olson Sloane, the late Ashley Olson, Andrea Olson Williams, Justin Townsend, Garret Townsend, Jessica Snyder, and Katie Earnhardt, as well as her eight great-grandchildren. Each of them will carry forward her legacy of kindness and love.

An avid writer of poems and short stories, Joy's creative talents were a source of joy and inspiration to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her words often captured the simple beauties of life, and her stories were a testament to her observant and thoughtful nature.

Joy's artistic abilities extended beyond the pen; she was a magnificent sewer and crocheter. Over the years, she donated countless handmade baby items and hats for school children, embodying her generous spirit. Her handcrafted gifts provided warmth and comfort to many, and her selfless acts of kindness left a lasting impact on her community.

The North Carolina Mountains held a special place in Joy's heart. She found solace in their majestic beauty and was happy to call the mountains her home for many decades. Her love for the mountains was a reflection of her appreciation for nature's grandeur and the peace it brought to her soul.

Described by those who knew her as kind, loving, and generous, Joy's presence was a gift to the world. She was a beacon of light in the lives of many, and her warmth was felt by all who had the fortune to cross her path. Her spirit was characterized by a boundless capacity to give and a heart that knew no limits when it came to love.

Joy's life was a testament to the power of kindness and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. Her memory will be cherished and celebrated by her family, including her many nieces and nephews, and by all who were touched by her grace and benevolence.

As we bid farewell to Catherine Joy Jendze, we reflect on a life well-lived and a woman well-loved. Her story does not end with her passing but continues in the lives of those she has influenced and in the beauty she has left behind. Joy's legacy will endure through the love she shared and the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will remain a guiding light for all who knew her.

In Lieu of flower’s donations made to:
MAIDEN CHAPEL GLOBAL METHODIST CHURCH
230 Maiden Chapel Road
Franklin, NC 28734