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Joy Soward Obituary
Joy Ann Soward, 90, of Lynchburg, Virginia, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026. She was the wife of the late Rev. James E. Soward, Jr.
Born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Joy was the daughter of the late Carl E. and Signe Anderson Johnson. She retired from Liberty University's financial aid department after a long career, and previously taught Kindergarten. Joy was a dedicated member of Thomas Road Baptist Church and a devoted prayer warrior.
In addition to her husband and parents, Joy was preceded in death by her brother, Lee Johnson. She is survived by her two sons, Jim Soward and David Soward (Rachel); daughter, Cheryl Soward Giggetts; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A service celebrating her life will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Thomas Road Baptist Church, with Pastor Jonathan Falwell officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Liberty Godparent Home at www.godparent.org/donate
Whitten Timberlake Chapel is serving the Soward family.
To send condolences online, please visit www.whittentimberlake.com
Memories and Condolences
for Joy Soward
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2 Entries
Kris Richard
January 29, 2026
Jim, So sorry to hear about the passing of your sweet mom! Praying for you and your family at this time.
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Darnell Richards (Mike)
January 28, 2026
Sorry for the loss of your mom. Prayers to all family
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