Joy Vann

Joy Vann, 85, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, passed away on February 22, 2025. She was born on December 19, 1939, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Hallie (Wright) Cross and Harvey Guy Cross.

Joy was united in marriage to Kenneth Pryor Vann on November 14, 1963, in Fort Smith. They shared a beautiful life together until his passing on December 30, 2002. Their love story began when Joy worked as a bank teller at First Federal Bank in Fort Smith.

Throughout her life, Joy made meaningful contributions to her community. She worked with Ken when he opened his State Farm Agency and was the proud former owner of Shadow Creek Golf Course. Joy was also a cherished member of First Baptist Church in Sallisaw, where she shared her talents by teaching Sunday School and preparing meals for her church family.

She is survived by her three sons: Brett Vann of Fort Smith, AR; Shannon Vann and his wife Cheryl of Sallisaw, OK; and Wade Vann and his wife Brandi of Roland, OK. Joy's legacy continues through her four grandchildren: Nathan Vann and his wife Catherine of Tulsa, OK; Sarah Riley Long and her husband Jordan of Little Elm, TX; Marissa Babirak and her husband Kyle of Chantilly, VA; and Whitley Coatney and her husband Logan of Roland, OK. Joy also cherished her three great-grandchildren: Nolan Long, Camden Coatney, and Jac Elaine Vann, along with many other relatives and friends.

Joy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth, and her parents.

A funeral service to celebrate Joy's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, February 28, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Sallisaw. Burial will follow at Sallisaw City Cemetery under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

Active pallbearers will include Kyle Babirak, Logan Coatney, Nathan Vann, David Gean, Steve Sullivan, Jordan Long, and Chris Hensley. The Men of First Baptist Church will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Viewing will take place from 10 AM to 8 PM on Thursday at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, where the family will greet visitors from 5:30 to 7:30 PM.

Joy Vann's warmth, spirit, and strong commitment to her family and faith will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.