Dr. Joy Koziol, immediate past president of the Waxhaw Lions Club, passed away unexpectedly at her home on January 11, 2025. She was known for her warm and vibrant personality and her love of Lionism. She joined the Chili, NY Lions club in 2009, then transferred her membership to Waxhaw NC in 2021. Prior to her move, Lion Joy served NY’s District 20 E1 as its Secretary, President, Zone Chair, District Diabetes Chair, Peace Poster Chair and more. Immediately upon transferring to Waxhaw, she became its Club Administrator and Marketing Chair. Under Joy’s leadership as its President, the Waxhaw Club received the 2023-24 LCI Club Excellence Award, and she was presented with a special Medal of Appreciation by the NC District Governor in July 2024. Her passion was for Lions to address mental health issues, especially for the benefit of children. Joy organized several new club projects, including a delivery of “Calming Kits” and other gifts for children in local schools. She was named one of Union County Weekly’s 100 Most Powerful Women in 2024, a reflection of her legacy of love and generosity to her community.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, January 20, 2025 at the Waxhaw United Methodist Church, 200 McDonald Street, Waxhaw NC. Visitation with Joy’s family and friends will be at Adela’s Mexican Restaurant, 701 Main St, Waxhaw following the service. Donations in her memory may be made to any Lions organization such as Waxhaw Lions Clubs Charities, Inc., North Carolina Lions Foundation, Inc., or Lions Clubs International Foundation.
