Joylena Marie Franklin Williams, affectionately known as "Joy," peacefully entered eternal rest on Friday, September 15, 2023, at the age of 48. She was educated in the Orleans Parish Public School System, culminating in her graduation from Sarah T. Reed Senior High School in May 1993. Joy continued her academic journey at Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA. She later graduated from Southern University at New Orleans, with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in December 2001.

Joy was a cherished and deeply devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, and friend. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Emma Jean Franklin. Left to forever hold her memory close are her devoted husband, Craig Sr.; their four children, Jayla, Craig, Jr., Jayden, and Carter; and her adored granddaughter, Emma. She is also survived by her brothers, Meyers, Brian, and David Franklin; her mother-in-law, Shirley Williams; brother-in-law, Dwayne Williams; sister-in-law, Candice Williams; her bonus family, Simon and Debra Dave, and Danaeha Eatman; her dear friend Rashica Hall, who moved in with her and stayed by her side until the very end; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and close friends.

Following Hurricane Katrina, Joy and her family found a new home in Atlanta, GA. It was during her tenure at Sage Software in Atlanta that she discovered her "Atlanta Village" – a close-knit group of friends who became her second family, providing unwavering love and support during both good times and her battle with breast cancer. Even as Joy transitioned into different phases of her life, her village remained a steadfast source of strength and encouragement. The family remains eternally grateful for their unwavering support.

Though Atlanta became her new home, New Orleans remained in her heart, and her "New Orleans Village" was always there to greet her upon her return. They ensured she didn't miss any Mardi Gras balls, parties, or exciting events, and she lived life to the fullest, always with a radiant smile on her face.

Even in the face of cancer, Joy refused to let it slow her down or stop her from embracing every facet of life. She embarked on journeys to London to watch her beloved New Orleans Saints play, Dominican Republic, and cruised the Caribbean on Disney to create precious memories with her boys. Independent and determined, she proudly rode on a float with her fellow Sunkissed sisters of the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale during the last Mardi Gras season.

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