Joy was born on March 23, 1955 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Ray and Lucille Haun (Knaub). She graduated from Gering High School in 1973 and furthered her education at Kearney State College. Joy then became a loving mother to three children in her marriage to Ray Ernst. She stayed home with her children and later went to work for Gering Public Schools.
Joy was then remarried to Kirk Arnold her late husband of 27 years. On February 6, 2023, the community of Gering, NE, bid a heartfelt farewell to Joy Arnold (Haun), a beloved woman whose strength, love, and selflessness touched the lives of many. At the age of 68, Joy peacefully passed away at Regional West Medical Center, surrounded by her family and friends, after a courageous battle against cancer.
Early Life and Education
Joy Arnold, born on March 23, 1955, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, was the daughter of Ray and Lucille Haun (Knaub). Her journey in education led her to graduate from Gering High School in 1973, setting the stage for a life dedicated to family, community, and the pursuit of knowledge. Furthering her education, Joy attended Kearney State College, laying the foundation for a future that would impact many lives.
Joy embraced motherhood with grace, becoming a loving mother to three children in her marriage to Ray Ernst. Her devotion to family was evident as she stayed home with her children before later joining the workforce at Gering Public Schools. Life took a turn, and Joy found love again in Kirk Arnold, her late husband, with whom she shared 27 years of companionship.
Grandma Joy: A Selfless Matriarch
Known affectionately as Grandma Joy, she extended her love and care beyond her immediate family. A selfless and loving figure, Joy played the roles of mother, grandmother, and aunt with unwavering dedication. Her pride and joy were her grandchildren – Turner, Maddie, Ryland, Tatum Ray, Ellis, and Finnly – who were the recipients of her boundless affection. Joy’s love for the golf course was a defining aspect of her life. Whether playing or working, she found solace and joy on the greens. Away from the golf course, her green thumb shone through as she indulged in gardening – a passion passed down from her father. Her ability to nurture life extended beyond plants; she nurtured laughter and happiness in the hearts of those around her.
A Legacy of Love and Support
Grandma Joy held the title with pride, traveling far and wide to support her children and grandchildren in their various endeavors, especially sporting events at Gering schools. Her selflessness and ability to put others first were the hallmarks of her character, creating a legacy of love, support, and shared joy. Joy is survived by her children, Andrea Ray (Matthew), Brad Ernst (Brianne), Cory Ernst (Brittany); grandchildren Turner, Maddie, Ryland, Tatum Ray, Ellis, and Finnly; siblings Karen Bolzer, Sandy Gable, Allen (Mary Kay) Haun; and stepchildren Matthew, Cody, Tyler, Tyson, and Katie (Van Sicklen) Arnold. Her memory lives on through the love she poured into her family and the community she embraced.
Farewell to a Beloved Soul
In her passing, Joy was preceded by her parents, husband, and brothers-in-law Ron Bolzer and Don Gable. The void left by her departure is felt deeply, but the legacy of love, laughter, and resilience she leaves behind serves as a comforting reminder of a life well-lived.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in Joy’s memory to Hope Lodge – Omaha or Gering Public Schools. Hope Lodge, where Joy found a home away from home during her cancer treatment, holds a special place in her heart. Supporting Gering Public Schools is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the educational community that played a significant role in her life. Joy Arnold’s journey may have reached its earthly conclusion, but the impact she made on the hearts and minds of those she touched remains eternal.
