Joy Rae Renner ZumMallen passed away on the evening of March 11, 2026, at the age of 88. The only child of Oscar and Ruby Renner, she was born on April 6, 1937, in El Reno, Oklahoma.
While attending Oklahoma State University, Joy Rae was a member of Chi Omega sorority, where she took leading roles in service projects and formed lifelong friendships. She remained active in local Chi Omega chapters throughout her life. She was also a member of Mortar Board, co-chair for Religious Emphasis week, and queen of the College of Business. After graduating in 1959, she taught for five years at Edison High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
In 1962, Joy Rae married Norvin Eldon ZumMallen at Trinity Lutheran Church in El Reno. The couple welcomed two children, Todd and Stacy, and Joy Rae was a loving mother to them both. In 1970, the family moved to Dallas, Texas, and became active members of Messiah Lutheran Church, where she worked in the Sunday School office. She and Norvin nurtured many friendships through a bridge club that often met in their home. After the move, Joy Rae used her business education to found her own jewelry business, J'oRo, which she operated for nearly fifty years, serving generations of friends and customers. She and Norvin shared a deep love of travel, exploring the world together and with family and friends.
God blessed Joy Rae with the gift of hospitality. She welcomed others into her home and into every conversation, making each person feel as though they were the most important one in the room. She will be deeply missed by her husband of more than 63 years, Norvin; son Todd ZumMallen and his wife Tammy; daughter Stacy ZumMallen; grandchildren Koby Griggs, Kennedy ZumMallen, Cassidy ZumMallen, and Kory Griggs; and countless devoted friends. Her loved ones grieve her passing but rejoice in the hope of reunion in heaven.
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