Stephanie Joy Shivers

Stephanie Joy Shivers, affectionately known as Joy, was born on September 20, 1973, in Picayune, Mississippi. With a heart that radiated warmth and kindness, she left us unexpectedly on March 13, 2025, at her home in Jackson, Tennessee. Joy’s spirit will forever be cherished, as she brought immeasurable love and light into the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and mother, Joy was a central figure in her family, always present with her uplifting personality and infectious laughter. Her parents, Marvin E. Henley Sr. and Gertude Henley, were truly blessed to call her their daughter. Above all, Joy’s greatest pride and joy were her two beautiful daughters, Jessica and Courtney, who stand as a testament to her nurturing spirit and deep love. She took immense pride in their lives, marveling at Courtney’s academic achievements at UTM and cherishing many wonderful outings with her dear parents.

Webster defines joy as the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune, or by the prospect of possessing what one desires. Joy embodied this definition in every sense. Her warmth, kindness, and infectious sense of humor made everyone feel at ease in her presence. She created countless memories with her sisters, from the playful moments of bossing around Cindy to enjoying Cindy’s famous home cooking with her own unique twist. Those moments when her father would bring her a package of Hubba Bubba gum stand out, encapsulating the simple joys that brought smiles to their faces. Through laughter-filled moments shared in the household, the Henley family wove a tapestry of love and connection that will endure.

Joy leaves behind her father, Marvin E. Henley Sr.; her mother, Gertude Henley; her daughters, Jessica Shivers and Courtney Henley; her brother, Eli and Kristy Henley of Alaska; her sisters, Teresa Henley of Jackson, Tennessee, Patricia and Johnny Conrad of Marion, Arkansas, and Cynthia "Cindy" Huxtable of Jackson, Tennessee; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews who will carry forward her legacy of love, joy, and laughter.

Joy was educated at Christian Life Academy, where her bright spirit first began to shine. She had a zest for life, particularly during the holidays when she would gather with family—a time she deeply cherished. Whether sitting on the porch savoring a cup of Sonic ice or relishing in simple moments, she thrived in the love and presence of her family.

In her final act of selflessness, Joy chose to be an organ and tissue donor, reflecting the generous spirit she embodied throughout her life. Her loving family encourages everyone to consider becoming a donor in honor of her enduring legacy of giving. While Joy’s light may have dimmed, her impact on all who knew her will resonate forever.

A visitation with family and friends will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Both will take place at Inspire Church of Jackson, located at 235 Moize Cut Off Rd, Jackson, TN 38305 with Pastor Clifford Walker officiating. 

A private family graveside service will take place at a later date. Friends and family are warmly invited to join in celebrating Joy’s remarkable life.

She was preceded in death by a niece, a nephew, and both sets of grandparents, Joy’s absence will be keenly felt by all who loved her. Though she has left this earthly realm, her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched, serving as a gentle reminder of the deep connections that bind us all. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love will continue to inspire and uplift those she left behind.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Inspire Church of Jackson, with the notation “For Stephanie Joy Shivers.”

Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 W. University Parkway, Jackson, TN 38305 731.668.1111 arringtonfuneraldirectors.com