Joy Faye Hedrick, a beloved resident of Pleasanton, Texas, passed away on September 21, 2023, at the age of 82. She was born on July 22, 1941, to proud parents who raised her with love and care. The world has lost a remarkable individual, a master of fudge making, a faithful believer in God, a devoted family woman, and a former police officer for the Atascosa County Sheriff's Department.

Joy's passion for fudge making was unparalleled. Her decadent creations were known far and wide, earning her the title of the world's best fudge maker. With each batch, Joy's skill and dedication shone through, bringing joy to the lives of many. Her fudge will forever be remembered as the embodiment of love and sweetness, just like the woman who made them.

Aside from her culinary prowess, Joy had an unwavering faith in God. She found solace in her spiritual beliefs and passionately shared wisdom, kindness, and compassion with those around her. Joy's connection to her faith guided her through life and brought comfort to countless individuals. Her devotion to God was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Family was of utmost importance to Joy. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones and took pride in passing down her knowledge of family crafts, ensuring that her traditions would live on. Joy was a pillar of support, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her presence brought warmth and laughter to family gatherings, creating memories that will be cherished for generations.

Prior to immersing herself in the world of fudge making and family, Joy served her community as a dedicated police officer for the Atascosa County Sheriff's Department. She fearlessly upheld the law, ensuring the safety and well-being of her fellow citizens. Joy's commitment to justice and protecting others was admired by her colleagues and respected by all who crossed her path.

Joy Faye Hedrick leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and faith. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. As we gather to celebrate her life, let us remember Joy's infectious laughter, her unwavering spirit, and her ability to put a smile on the face of anyone she encountered.

She is survived by her son, Marlon Scott Kuenstler and wife Melody Shawn (Micki) Kuenstler; ex-husband, Calvin Kuenstler and wife Cora Ann Kuenstler; grandchildren, Brandon Scott Kuenstler, Glen Calvin Kuenstler and wife Bethani Kuenstler, Jenni Nicole Kuenstler, Katherine Capri Miller and her husband Dan Miller; brother, Roy (Bubba) Smith and wife Sharon Smith, and great-grandchildren, Weston Kuenstler, Summer Kuenstler and Jayden Washington, and Dutch and Baker Miller.

Joy was preceded in death by her father, Roy C. Smith; mother, Joy David and her husband L.T. David; sister, Elizabeth (Bootsie) Katzfey and her husband Martin Katzfey Jr., and son, Marshall Glen Kuenstler.

Services will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at Hurley Funeral Home, with visitation starting at 8:00 AM and the funeral service starting at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in George West Cemetery at 517 Cemetery Road in George West.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in memory of Joy to CASA of South Texas, at https://casasouthtx.org/donate/

Rest in peace, dear Joy. May your soul find eternal tranquility in the embrace of God's loving arms.