Joy Burson Butler, of Carrollton, passed away Sunday, July 6, 2025. Joy was born March 24, 1945, the youngest child of Mr. John Henry and Jewell Burson, Jr. Joy was born and raised in Carrollton, a graduate and member of the Carrollton High School Class of 1963. She was always a Trojan and loved singing the words to the CHS fight song at any moment and to any crowd.

After high school, she graduated from West Georgia College in 1966 with a degree in Education. It was there that she met the love of her life, Scott A. Butler from Manchester. Scott and Joy were married on September 5, 1965 and were married for nearly 50 years until Scott's passing in 2015. After a short time in Chickamauga and Carrollton, Scott and Joy moved to Atlanta, ultimately settling in Stone Mountain, where they would raise their three sons.

As the boys grew older, Joy returned to school and graduated with a Master's degree in Education from Georgia State University in 1984. She taught math at Lithonia High School for several years. In 1992, Joy moved to Brookwood High School in Gwinnett County to serve as a guidance counselor. Her time at Brookwood was the most fulfilling time of her career with many dear friends, relationships and memories from her time as a Bronco. She retired from Brookwood in 2007 and she and Scott moved home to Carrollton in 2008.

Her work in education continued in retirement, working part time with the Student Teacher Field Experience program at the University of West Georgia. Scott and Joy were lifelong educators and loved the opportunity to pass on their passion to the next generation. She was involved with several civic clubs and bible studies, and was a proud member of the Friends of the Library board.

Through the years, Scott and Joy made lasting friendships with their beloved communities at Smoke Rise Baptist Church, Cedar Park, Rivermist, Hays Mill Overlook, Tabernacle Baptist Church, and The Stewart House So many memories, ball games, cruises, trips, and friendships that truly lasted a lifetime.

Joy is survived by her three sons and daughters-in-law: Steven (Jill) Butler of Panama City Beach, FL; Scott (Emily) Butler II of Carrollton; and Ben (Kirby) Butler of Carrollton. 9 Grandchildren: Captain Jack Butler (Maddie), Joe Butler, Jeb (Lizzie) Butler, Judson Butler, Judge Butler, Lieutenant Gavin Butler, Campbell Butler, Brittain Butler, and Burson Butler. 3 Great-Grandchildren: Margot Butler, Micah Butler, and Ezra Butler. She is also survived by her oldest brother, Dr. John H. Burson III (Barbara); as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. John Henry and Jewell Burson, Jr; husband of 50 years, Scott A. Butler, her brother and sister-in-law, Mr. Ronald and Mrs. Carole Burson.

Joy's Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2 from 9-11am at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Carrollton with Service to follow at 11am with Dr. Stephen Allen officiating. Following the service, All are invited to a reception to celebrate the lasting impact of Scott & Joy Butler at the University of West Georgia University House (Alumni House) located at 1903 Maple St in Carrollton from 12:30-2:30pm.

Memorial contributions can be made to Tabernacle Baptist Church or the Scott & Joy Butler Endowed Scholarship at the University of West Georgia.

Messages of condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.almonfuneralhome.com.

Almon Funeral Home in Carrollton is in charge of the arrangements.