Joi Janette Dunn

On Friday May 30th, 2025, Joi Janette Dunn of Harriman, Tennessee, beloved mother, daughter, cherished sister, and wonderful best friend unexpectedly passed away at the age of 48.

Born Jin-Hwa Im in Pusan, South Korea on April 17, 1977, Joi was adopted at six months old by geologist Harry Dunn and his wife Janice Dunn of Knoxville, Tennessee. As they eagerly awaited the arrival of their "bundle of joy," they chose the name "Joi" for their precious baby girl. Joi shared a deep and special bond with her father Harry, and one of their most treasured memories was attending the 1982 World's Fair in Knoxville. Joi also shared a special love of gardening with her mother Janice and celebrating each others birthdays at their cherished restaurant Apple Cake Tea Room.

In 1983, Joi became a proud big sister to Hope, adopted from the Philippines. Tragically, their father passed away the following year due to complications from juvenile diabetes, a profound loss that shaped Joi's deep sense of empathy and resilience.

A 1995 graduate of Karns High School, Joi went on to earn her Associate's Degree in Computer Information Systems from Knoxville Business College, later completing her Bachelor's in Business Administration at Strayer University. At the time of her passing, she was a highly respected Implementation Specialist with RCM Technologies, known for her compassion, dedication, and attention to detail.

In 2001, Joi welcomed her only daughter Marissa into the world-a bond that became the centerpiece of her life. As a mother, Joi was unwaveringly devoted, not only nurturing Marissa with love and strength but also supporting her every passion. Whether from the sidelines at soccer games across the country, making art, or behind her camera lens, Joi showed up with heart and pride.

Joi turned her creative eye and love for storytelling into Joiful Memories Photography, where she specialized in capturing milestones, celebrations, and candid moments. She had a particular passion for sports photography, including soccer and racing, and her work was featured in Grassroots Magazine. Outside of her career and photography, Joi was known for her radiant smile, infectious laugh, and fiercely protective spirit. She was a loving friend, a steadfast sister, and a devoted dog mom to Mika, who remained faithfully by her side until the very end.

Joi is preceded in death by her grandparents Thomas and Myrtle Shupe of Virginia, Edward and Emma Jane Dunn of Missouri, as well as her parents Harry and Janice Dunn. She is survived by her daughter Marissa Panzera; sister Hope Dunn; relatives in Missouri, Virginia, and Tennessee; and cherished chosen family Michelle and Tim Lovett, their children Samantha, Tyler, and Brandon, Dillon Lloyd, Robyn Panzera, Ray Panzera, and Tabitha Minadeo.

Joi also adored her "grand-dogs," Lotti, Luna, and Maple, each of whom brought her immeasurable comfort and happiness. She will be deeply missed by the many others whose lives she touched from every path in between. Joi formed lasting friendships wherever she went, and her presence leaves a space that will be felt by many.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley, where Mika was adopted from and Joi was a beloved foster, volunteer, and photographer.

A GoFundMe has been created by her dear friend Loanne Lepley to support Joi's daughter Marissa and her beloved dog, Mika during this difficult time: https://gofund.me/b80ad56e