Mary "Joy" Matthews Blackburn Carpenter

Mary “Joy” Matthews Blackburn Carpenter, 97, a long-time resident of Morristown, passed away peacefully on the morning of December 13, 2021 at Life Care Center of Morristown.  She was born Nov. 8, 1924 in Earle, Arkansas to Clarence Edwin and Mary Throgmorton Matthews.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents; late husbands, Norris C. Blackburn, Jr. and Ralph P. Carpenter; son, Norris C. “Chip” Blackburn, III; brothers, William T. and C.E. Matthews; sister, Esther M. Helfrich.

Joy is survived by her daughter, Mary Blackburn, of Wilmington, NC; son, John Blackburn, of Morristown; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

After moving to Morristown in 1964 with husband, Norris, and children, Joy became involved in many clubs and activities and was a member of First United Methodist Church for almost sixty years.  She especially enjoyed her time with Newcomers Club, Ladies Reading Circle, various Bible study groups, and her many bridge clubs and friends.  Joy loved people and socializing which benefited her many years in retail.  Devoted to her family, even blowing them kisses while Face Timing right up to the end, she will be greatly missed by those who have loved her through such a long, blessed life.

The family would like to thank Aaliyah Davis, Hope Mendoza, Morgan Rector, and all of the staff of Life Care Center of Morristown for their loving and compassionate care.

A memorial service is being planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to First United Methodist Church or the charity of their choice.

Arrangements by Stetzer-Bales Funeral Home.

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