Joyce "Joy" Darlene Musquiz

Joyce Darlene Musquiz passed away at home February 11th, 2024. She was born in Kansas City, Missouri on September 1, 1946. Joy was preceded in death by her mother, Lena L. Smith, father Merle Kane, stepfather Harold Smith, and brother Robert Kane. Joy is survived by her husband of 28 years, Paul (JR) Musquiz Jr., her sisters, Linda Kane Dextras (Paul), Stephanie (Gidget) Padgett, and Lee Ann Cartmitchel (Alan), brothers, Brad Smith (Denise) and Hal Smith (Tammy), nieces, Tessa Weaver (Cameron), Jennifer Zades (Michael), Stevie Ricks (Grayson), nephews, Steve Smith (April), Tyler Carmitchel (Sally), and Matt Carmitchel (Emily). 

Joy served the Independence community for 37 years with the Independence Fire Department. She attended the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Joy was Fire Marshall for the City of Independence. In her career, she solved many problems, approved plans that impacted the growth, and development of her community. She provided many public education and safety classes enhancing the overall safety of citizens of all ages. Joy retired in 2008. 

Joy valued life, including her family, many friends, and her community. Her smile instantly bridged gaps and was a driving force in her ability to make lasting impressions and friends throughout the world. Joy had an adventurous side. She traveled the world with family and friends Karon, Gloria and Tukuta while making fond memories in Ireland, France, England, Cambodia, Laos, Canada, Scotland and Thailand to name a few. She embraced new hobbies including piano and guitar lessons, learning dual languages, and tap dancing. Joy had a strong faith as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and attended the Mill Creek Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She volunteered in the community by sharing her hope for the future through the benefits of God’s Kingdom, which brought comfort to many. See you in Paradise Jo-Jo! A Memorial is planned for Joy on February 24 at 1pm at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 500 S. Lee’s Summit Rd, Independence, MO.