Joy Fay Russell Culbreth, 91, widow of the late Charlie Culbreth, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2026.
A native of Spartanburg County, Joy was the daughter of the late Lewis Albert, and Osie Mae Patterson Russell. She devoted many years to her career as a supervisor for Computer Dynamics before retiring. Her life was marked by her faith, her dedication to her church, and the love she shared with her friends and family. A faithful member of Victor Baptist Church, Joy graciously served others as an assistant Sunday school teacher. She was an active member of the church’s hospitality committee sharing her time and talents with her church family. She was also a former member of the Order of the Eastern Star.
Joy’s legacy of love and devotion will be cherished by those who knew her. She is survived by her son, Richard L. Buchanan of Greer, South Carolina; her stepson, Scott Culbreth of Alabama; her brother, Harold Russell of Landrum, South Carolina; and her grandchildren, Eric Buchanan (Lindsey), Hilary Buchanan (Chang), Brent Buchanan (Heather), Ashley Cotton (Amelia), and Josh Buchanan (Ashlei). She also leaves behind six great-grandchildren, Mary Claire, Beatrice, Wrenly, Adryana, Alec, and Avery who will all carry forth the love and memories she leaves with them.
In addition to her beloved husband, Charlie, Joy was preceded in death by her son, Johnny Buchanan; her stepdaughter, Donna Culbreth; her sister, Carolyn Dorris; and a grandson John Eric Buchanan.
Funeral services celebrating Joy’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Oct. 17 at Victor Baptist Church, conducted by Rev. Ken Vickery. Burial will follow in Wood Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Oct. 17 at Victor Baptist Church.
Online memorials can be made at https://www.thewoodmortuary.com.
