Joy Tucker

Joy Tucker, age 93, of Welda, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at her home.

 Joy Ilean Griffith was born on June 25, 1932, in a farmhouse in Welda, Kansas, the daughter of Ralph and Velma (Serene) Griffith.

Joy married the love of her life, Ulis "Curly" Tucker Jr. on October 26, 1963, in Kansas City, Kansas. Their story began when they met in a nightclub, where Curly was performing music-a moment that sparked a lifetime of shared passions and adventures.

Joy and Curly began their life together in Kansas City, where they started raising St. Bernards. In 1970, they moved to Welda, Kansas, where they established the Tucker St. Bernard Farm, a venture that would make them known to thousands of people across the country. For 27 years, they raised, bought, and sold AKC registered puppies, spreading joy to families all over the United States.

Joy had a special gift for buying and re-selling just about anything-her personalized license plate proudly read "LUV2BUY." She had a keen eye for treasures and a heart for finding joy in every new discovery.

Together, Joy and Curly also owned and operated The Rocky Roost, the most beloved truck stop and restaurant on Highway 169. Known for its warm atmosphere and especially Joy's famous homemade pies, The Rocky Roost became a cherished stop for locals and travelers alike, filled with fond memories and good food.

Their commitment to the community didn't stop there. When the Welda school closed, Joy and Curly purchased the old schoolhouse. They kept it alive as a space for the local children to play basketball and later transformed it into a vibrant flea market and auction space, continuing to bring people together.

Joy's love of nature was a constant source of happiness. Birds, flowers, and squirrels brought her daily delight-she could never have too many flowers, and she tended them with joy and care.

In her later years, Joy found an extraordinary friendship in Liz Lankard, who lovingly stood by her side and brought comfort and companionship when she needed it most.

Joy Tucker's life was a beautiful blend of hard work, kindness, creativity, and love. Her legacy lives on in the thousands of families touched by her work, the community she helped shape, and the memories she created with everyone lucky enough to know her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Darlene Steele; brother, Ralph Wesley Griffith; sons; Ronnie Nokes and John Tucker; son-in-law, Marvin Hiestand and granddaughter, Loren Nichole.

Joy is survived by her husband of 62 years, Ulis "Curly" of the home; children; Katrina Tucker of Welda, Kansas, Trish Hiestand of Topeka, Kansas, Debbie Tucker of Olathe, Kansas, Clark Tucker of Welda, Kansas; grandchildren, Chase Winters, Jeff Hiestand, Kris Hiestand, Garrett Tucker, Abby Tucker, Alice Tucker, Ilea Brown and six great- grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, Garnett. Joy's family will greet friends an hour prior to the service at 9:30 A.M. Burial will follow at Welda Cemetery, Welda, Kansas.

Memorial contributions may be made to Welda United Methodist Church, Gentiva Hospice or Angels of Chanute.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.feuerbornfuneral.com