1929-2026
Joy Plank, of West Liberty, passed away in the early hours of the morning on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the age of 97. Joy lived on her own at her home on Runkle Street until relocating to Otterbein Green Hills one week prior to her passing.
Joy was born on January 8, 1929, in West Liberty, Ohio. She was the last remaining member of her father, Merve, and mother, Ruth Hostetler's family.
On February 1, 1948, she married John C. Plank, and they enjoyed 73 years together before his passing on May 20, 2021. She is also preceded in death by her brothers: James, William “Bill”, and David “Bud”; sister, Joan “Pip”, and infant sister, Mary; grandson, Kenneth Plank; and granddaughter-in-law, Monica Plank
She leaves behind her three sons: Douglas (Suzanne), Dennis (Connie), and Darry (Paula); 7 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren, and one on the way, due in July, and many, many, many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Joy was a member of the graduating class of 1947 at West Liberty High School. A lifetime resident of West Liberty, the community was dear to her. She was a member of the West Liberty United Church of Christ since 1955. She and John were regular participants in many community activities, including officers of the WL Youth Baseball Association and founding members of the Mac-O-Chee Quarter Midgets of America, and for over fifty years, exhibitors at the West Liberty Labor Day Festival. Together, they were very active as they raised their three sons. She was very supportive of the many sports and activities of John and the boys. For years, she was a nurse's aide at Mary Rutan Hospital, Bellefontaine, and later worked for many years at the Farmers Banking Company in West Liberty. She was an avid bowler and a member of the West Liberty Salem Athletic Hall of Fame. She often played the organ in her home.
There will be a burial at 10:30 am on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Fairview Cemetery, West Liberty, for immediate family only.
A service will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the United Church of Christ in West Liberty, 212 Newell St, all are welcome. Pastor Karen Griswold will be officiating with a meal to follow at the church.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Missionary Aide, West Liberty United Church of Christ, P.O. Box 427, West Liberty, Ohio 43357.
EICHHOLTZ & DARING FUNERAL HOME, WEST LIBERTY, is honored to serve the Plank family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at eichholtzdaring.com.
