Joy Gatlin Brandon

Joy Gatlin Brandon of Knoxville, TN passed away peacefully on November 28th, 2025 at the age of 78. Joy had many loyal friends who, over the past eight years, helped her to cope with the aftermath of a debilitating stroke. She was born on February 6,1947 to Gray G. Brandon and Amy Witherspoon Brandon Sherrill. Joy's father died before her birth. She is survived by her brother, Thomas Brandon.

Joy was raised among a large and extended family. She attended Sequoyah Elementary School and West High School in Knoxville. She went on to graduate from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a bachelor's degree in home economics and a master's degree in communications.

Joy's outgoing personality and keen communication skills were well suited to her career in Public Relations. She landed her first advertising jobs in Boston, MA where she promoted the likes of McDonalds and Mars candies. Joy spent many years as a communication specialist for the American Institute for Architects (AIA) in Washington, DC. She especially enjoyed arranging conventions for the AIA held coast to coast. Joy was recruited from the AIA to work for architect John Burgee and moved to New York City.

Joy's love for travel, fostered by her mother who believed in skipping school in favor of seeing the world, took her to far off places including Iran, China, Russia, South Africa, Tahiti and Cuba. She delighted in initiating and organizing trips with her wide circle of friends and family. Joy easily endeared herself to others with her propensity for laughter, lighthearted fun, and her encyclopedic mind. A girl's trip to Gatlinburg was met with as much enthusiasm as a cruise through the Panama Canal or a jaunt to Europe.

Joy's interests were wide and varied. She bought homes in multiple cities that she renovated and rented. She adored her dogs, loved flowers, jaguar cars, and books, especially mysteries and World War II novels. Season tickets to the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra were a favorite. Joy had an eye for art and antiques, filling her home with original art and family heirlooms. She loved estate sales and could spot a rare find to add to her many collections. Joy could most always be found with her nose in The New York Times, reading the daily paper cover to cover, howling at a New Yorker cartoon, or enjoying classic movies.

Joy was a steadfast supporter for the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine where she established a travel fund in memory of her mother. She also supported The UT Gardens, Girl Scouts and was a member of the Junior League.

Joy will be lovingly remembered by her cadre of life-long friends, her extended family and the many acquaintances that enjoyed her presence.

A celebration of Joy's life will be held at a later date.

In honor of Joy, donations can be made to:

The UT Gardens, Knoxville

University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra