Joy D. May (Hickmott)

Joy May, daughter of the late Leroy and Etta May, was born January 26, 1949 in Detroit, Michigan and passed away peacefully in her home in Grand Rapids, Michigan on September 15, 2025 at the age of 76.

She is preceded in death by her two brothers Ron May and Jeff May. 

Joy leaves behind her three daughters Tonya May, Danielle Hickmott, and Jaclyn Hickmott. She also leaves behind her longtime companion Dave Anderson, along with her brother Jerry (Liz) May, and many nieces, nephews and friends. 

Joy graduated from Central High School in 1967. She was very active within the Cystic Fibrosis community in the 80's and 90's. Until retiring, she worked in the Special Education Department at Grand Rapids Public Schools. 

Joy was a gifted seamstress and crafter, with an eye for design. Over the years she created many bridesmaid dresses, Halloween costumes, and items for daughter’s school projects. She passed those valuable skills to her daughters.

Joy will be remembered for her humor, sharp wit, love of animal print, travel, strong maternal streak, and fierce advocacy for her disabled daughter.

A celebration of Joy’s life will be held on Wednesday September 24, 2025 from 3pm to 7pm at Eastern Hall, located at 506 Eastern Ave, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

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