Ronald J. Joy

June 7, 1931 - September 29, 2013 Sunday night, with his daughter by his side, Ron quietly and lovingly closed his beautiful eyes and passed from this life. Born in Ottawa, Illinois to Joseph and Delores Joy, he spent his youth growing up on the tough streets of Chicago. Ron enlisted and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He moved to California in the late 50's where he attended The Art Center School; there he discovered a natural affinity for photography. Ron had a wonderful eye for beauty, and his photography has stood the test of time. Ron had the great privilege of being one of the official photographers with The Beatles on their first tour of the US. He traveled the world on assignments photographing celebrities of the 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's. His images of notables such as Frank Sinatra, Nancy Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Natalie Woods, Julie Andrews, Tony Curtis, Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis and his favorite, the beautiful Elizabeth Taylor, graced magazine covers, books, album covers and billboards. A tall handsome Irish man, Ron was full of charm, had a feisty temper and was always dapper. Later in his career he was a producer, writer, and a proud member of the Directors Guild for over 40 years. Ron worked as a producer or director for commercials, television shows, films and stage productions. Ron worked with Ray Charles, Sammy Davis Jr, Peggy Lee, Elvis Presley, and Nancy Sinatra on many shows in Las Vegas to name just a few. Ron was best known for his quick wit, and living his life on his own terms. He had a passion for travel, meeting new people, an irreverent sense of humor, and he never lost that Irish gift for storytelling. Ron loved beautiful girls, a fine meal, and in his words said "You got to look good, feel good, and smell good" always accompanied with a snap of his fingers. Ron was an amazing father to his only child Belle, a loving grandfather to Jonathan and Alexander, and he had a fierce and protective love of his family and the many friends in his life. He was always there for the ones he loved. Ron will be forever missed by his daughter Belle (Tony)Schwartz, grandson's Jonathan and Alex, and friends all over the world. Ron faced the profound challenges of living with Dementia with much grace and courage. The family would especially like to thank The Malnik Family, the extraordinary staff at the Sunrise of West Hills, Vitas Hospice Care, and Jeovany Quiroz for treating Ron with love and respect during his lengthy illness. Friends are asked to raise a glass of wine in his memory, recall old times, and care for each other. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Ron's honor to Alzheimer's Research, The Red Road Foundation, or the Veterans Hospital. A service will be held on Friday, October 4, 2013 at 10am at the Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park, 5600 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village 91362.