Joy Marie DeMarco

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joy Marie DeMarco. Born to Vincent and Jennie DeMarco in Aurora, Illinois, on March 22, 1959, Joy passed away in Hiram, Georgia, on April 23, 2025. Joy's childhood was spent primarily in the Chicago area, with a period in New Jersey before the family's return to Illinois. A 1977 graduate of Glenbard East High School, she found her first love there, Frank Favia, and together they joyfully welcomed two sons, Brandon and Jason Favia. Later in life, Joy's journey took her to Georgia, where she discovered her second love, Keith Patterson, and they celebrated the arrival of her third son, Robert Patterson. Demonstrating her commitment to personal growth, Joy earned a degree in Computer Information Systems from Chattahoochee Technical College in 2000, achieving membership in the honors society. Throughout her life, Joy embraced diverse roles, from capturing memories at Photomat and serving customers at Grandma Sally’s to providing compassionate care as a CNA at the Brian Center. For many years, she diligently maintained clean and welcoming environments as a custodian at Hiram High School and Cheatham Hill Elementary. Known for her strong work ethic, she often balanced multiple jobs to include a house cleaning business. Joy found great pleasure in the simple thing’s life offered. An avid fisherman, she spent countless peaceful hours by the lake, patiently waiting to reel in bass and catfish. Her green thumb transformed her yard into a vibrant garden, proudly featuring a striking palm tree. A true animal lover, Joy opened her heart and home to a wide array of creatures over the years, including dogs, cats, birds, fish, ducks, hamsters, ferrets, guinea pigs, and snakes. She even undertook the ambitious project of creating an outdoor pond for large koi fish. She cherished the beauty and gentle nature of horses and enjoyed visits to the zoo. Her dedication to animals extended beyond her own pets through a Facebook page with over 11,000 members dedicated to reuniting lost animals with their owners. Above all, Joy treasured time spent with her family, especially her children and grandchildren, of whom she often spoke with immense pride. A devoted Chicago sports fan, she passionately cheered for the Bears and the Bulls, proudly owning a signed Walter Payton book, a documentary of the 1985 Bears, a Super Bowl Shuffle DVD, and Michael Jordan memorabilia. Joy was preceded in death by her parents, Vince and Jennie DeMarco, and her brother, Steven DeMarco. She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Brandon (Christy) Favia, Jason (Tiffany) Favia, and Robert Patterson; her sisters, Tina Divito and Lori Wieszchowski (Nikki Stephens); her brother, Jeff (Sally) DeMarco; and her cherished grandchildren, Kaila Favia, Brynlee Favia, and Liam Favia. She also leaves behind many dear cousins, nieces, and nephews. Joy's kind spirit, her deep love for her family and animals, and her unwavering dedication to hard work will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.