Joy Galluzzo

In Loving Memory of Joy Galluzzo 

With deep sorrow and enduring love, we announce the passing of Joy Galluzzo, 80 years young, who left this world peacefully on Oct 6, 2025. She was surrounded by the love of her family and the warmth of a life richly lived. 

Joy was a beautiful woman—inside and out—whose intelligence, warmth, and generosity touched everyone she met. A devoted mother, she stayed home to raise her children with love, patience, and wisdom. Later in life, she returned to college at University of Missouri, St. Louis, and proudly completed her undergraduate degree—a reflection of her lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth. That same commitment led her to work in 2001 at the Churchill Center & School in St. Louis, an institution dedicated to serving children with learning disabilities—her role as Business Manager at Churchill deeply aligned with her values and compassion. 

Joy married Bill Galluzzo in 2008 who she shared so many wonderful adventures. Travel, boating, lots of laughter, long drives and blending two amazing families were what Joy and Bill valued most about their union. 

Joy is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Galluzzo, her parents John and Lucille Kerksick, her brothers Dennis Kerksick and Kenneth Kerksick and sister Edna Overbey. 

She leaves behind her beloved children who will miss her infectious smile, kind soul and warm spirit: 

Jennifer Corbett (John Heinrich), grandchildren Carson Corbett; John Heinrich’s Daughters and Jennifer’s bonus family - Danielle Kulp (Adam), great-grandchildren Carter, Grant, and Marley and Shelley Sieve (Rich), great-grandchildren Blake, Kyler, and Eleanor; 

Krista Kenkel (Derek), grandchildren Kylie Walters, Jacob Kenkel, and Sara Kenkel; 

Michael Hodge (Leanne), grandchildren Preston, Dylan, and Emily.

She formed a remarkable bond with her husband Bill Galluzzo’s family who loved and cherished her warmth and dedication to their dad. Joy is lovingly remembered by Bill’s family: 

Carol Whelan (Dave), and grandchildren Amy, Emily, and Jack; 

Paul Galluzzo (Elizabeth), and grandchildren Meagan Pummer (Jesse and great grandchild Blair) and Justine Galluzzo; 

Steve Galluzzo, (late wife Jennifer), and grandchildren Natalie, Rachel, and Sarah. 

Mike Galluzzo (Sara)

Joy formed countless friendships and connections during her many phases of life. She continued to stay in touch with Beaumont High School girlfriends, neighborhood circles, work colleagues, and held onto strong family ties. She was a cherished member of a spirited group of women friends known as the “Cowgirls” who originated in the iconic Carrollton subdivision in Bridgeton, MO. Together, they traveled the world and supported one another through family events, life milestones and soulful triumphs. Their adventures were filled with laughter, deep connection, and a shared zest for life that brought Joy immeasurable happiness. 

She loved spending time with her family, attending her grandchildren’s sporting and school activities to get her “Grandma Card” punched—a phrase she used with pride and joy. She had a deep love for musicals and plays, and she delighted in sharing her favorite films, The Sound of Music and The Wizard of Oz, with those she loved.

 Her family connections were deep, friendships were rich and enduring, and her heart generous and kind. She had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, and her presence and beautiful smile brought light to every room she entered. We will miss her hugs immensely. 

In keeping with her generous spirit and commitment to education, Joy donated her body to Washington University in St. Louis for medical research and learning.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Churchill Center & School, an institution close to her heart and aligned with her belief in the transformative power of education. 

Donations may be made online at: https://www.churchillstl.org/support/donate-now/ 

Please choose the “I would like to dedicate this gift” checkbox through the online giving form if you’d like to dedicate your donation to Joy.

Celebration of Life: A celebration of Joy Galluzzo’s life will be held on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at Piazza Messina Lakeside Venue, 5535 State Highway N, Cottleville, MO 63304 from 4 - 7 p.m. Please arrive at 4 p.m. and the service will begin at 4:30, followed by fellowship, food and drink to celebrate a life well lived.