William Kent Joy

William Kent Joy, 64, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, February 11, 2023. He was born October 24, 1958 in Sandusky, to Lowell and Virginia Joy. He lived in Lakeside, Ohio and was a 1976 graduate of Danbury High School. The following fall, he met the love of his life, Julie and they were married on August 6, 1977. Kent worked at the family Lakeside Marine and served as a volunteer EMT/Firefighter before returning to school to follow his calling to serve the Lord. He graduated from University of Toledo and then served at Park Avenue UMC, Amherst while attending Methodist Theological School in Ohio. He served at Newcomers Chapel UMC, Birmingham UMC, Berlin Heights Lakeview UMC, First United Methodist Church of Mansfield and in 2015 became Pastor of First United Methodist Church of Elyria. Kent, as everyone knew him, was a man of God as well as the people. He was eternally giving and always willing to offer a helping hand or loving embrace. He shared God and Jesus in a way few others knew how and lead many to Christ throughout his life. He was the knower of all things and the fixer of any house he visited. As a father, Kent was compassionate and strived to love and protect. He was always there with unwavering love, support, advice or a witty comment to make you smile. He was active in the Elyria Ministerial Association, Elyria Sunrise Rotary, Neighbor Up Elyria, Financial Stability Impact Advisory United Way of Lorain County, Urban League and We Care Elyria. Kent also enjoyed motorcycle trips with his wife, music, cooking, photography, skiing, boating, birding and fishing. As a husband of 45 years, he was the perfect fit for Julie. They were truly a match made in Heaven. He is also survived by his children, Caitlin (Andy) Agard, and Casey and Caleb Joy; grandchildren, Eliott Joy and Soren and Maisie Agard; mother, Virginia Joy; father, Lowell and stepmother, Elaine Joy; siblings, Kenny (Sue) Joy, Kathie Joy and Keith (Kathy) Joy; sister-in-law, Debbie (Mike) Campbell and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Marjorie Gottschalk. Friends may call Thursday, February 16, 2023 from 5 to 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 312 Third Street, Elyria and also Friday, February 17, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of an 11 a.m. memorial service at the church with The Reverend Dr. William L. McFadden, The Reverend Bruce Hitchcock, The Reverend Dr. Steve Bailey and The Reverend John Butchko officiating. Burial will be in Catawba Island Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 312 Third Street, Elyria, OH 44035 or Bike Hope Love, 4065 St, OH-44, Rootstown, OH 44272 (https://www.bikehopelove.org/). Arrangements are in the care of Dicken Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Elyria. For online condolences, visit www.dickenfuneralhome.com