Southport, N.C. – As the Southport community continues to reel from the horrific shooting that claimed three lives and left several others injured on Saturday evening, one of the victims has now been lovingly remembered by her family, church, and friends as a woman of deep faith and boundless compassion.
Joy Rodgers, affectionately known to those closest to her as J.R., was tragically taken in the act of violence that shook the town and its people to the core. Joy was not only a beloved wife and mother, but also a cherished friend and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. Her presence radiated kindness, and those who knew her described her as a true “collector of people,” someone who made everyone around her feel seen, valued, and deeply loved.
Remembering Joy’s Life and Legacy
In the days following her passing, tributes have poured in from friends, church members, and community members who were touched by her life. Joy’s devotion to her family was steadfast, and her faith shaped everything she did. She poured love into her husband, children, and those around her, leaving a legacy that will not be forgotten.
A close friend shared, “Joy was a wonderful woman who proudly stood in her faith. I enjoyed our conversations and will miss her terribly. She was always so kind to Ella, and I loved that about her. Joy is with her Lord and Savior now, and we take comfort in that.”
This sentiment has been echoed throughout the community, where Joy’s love, warmth, and strength are being remembered as guiding lights even in this season of grief.
A Community United in Support
As the Rodgers family now faces unimaginable heartbreak, the community has come together to provide support during this painful season. A fundraiser has been launched to assist with memorial service costs and to ease the family’s financial burdens as they navigate life without their beloved Joy.
Friends and faith leaders have encouraged not only financial support but also prayers for the family, reminding everyone that Joy’s life was rooted in her faith and her love for Christ.
The church family where Joy worshipped has also rallied around the Rodgers family, offering care, meals, and words of comfort as they mourn the loss of someone who lived her faith so openly and inspired others to do the same.
Holding to Faith Amid Heartbreak
The Rodgers family and those grieving Joy are finding strength in Scripture, clinging to the promises of eternal life. Many have shared John 3:16 (KJV) as a source of comfort during this dark time:
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
While Joy’s absence leaves a painful void, her friends and family are holding to the belief that she is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior, at peace, and free from the suffering of this world.
Moving Forward Together
The Southport community continues to grapple with the shock of the shooting, but amid the grief, stories like Joy’s serve as reminders of the love, light, and faith that persist even in tragedy.
Her family has asked for continued prayers, love, and support, as they remember Joy not for the way her life was taken, but for the way she lived—faithfully, joyfully, and lovingly.
Joy Rodgers’ legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched. She will be remembered not only as a victim of a senseless act of violence but as a woman who carried the love of Christ and shared it abundantly with everyone around her.
Reported by NewsPulse Reporter | NewsPulse Media