Joy Marie Back

Joy Marie Back was born on February 26, 1961, and passed away on April 12, 2025. Her parents were Marvin and Pauline Back. Joy was a lifetime resident of Salina and graduated from Salina High School in 1979. She attended college at Northeastern State University and Tulsa Community College. She was a member of Salina First Baptist Church.

Known for her vibrant spirit and infectious laugh, Joy brought light and laughter wherever she went. Joy had a deep love for music and was a devoted fan of Donny Osmond. One of her fondest memories was attending an Elvis Presley concert in Tulsa during her younger years—a moment she cherished throughout her life. Her passion for stories extended beyond music into the world of books, and she built a personal library that reflected her love of reading.

A true lover of nature and animals, Joy shared a special bond with her dog, Sandy. She would often take Sandy hunting for squirrels, enjoying the peacefulness of the outdoors.

Joy's laughter could fill a room, and her sense of humor made her a joy to be around—pun fully intended. She appreciated a good joke and never missed a chance to share a laugh. More than anything, Joy loved her family deeply, especially the little ones, and always looked forward to holidays and special occasions where she could be surrounded by those she loved most. 

Joy's warmth, wit, and unwavering love for life will be dearly missed but forever remembered by all who knew her. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Pauline Back, brothers Mike Back, Chris Back, and Thomas (Sonny) Keener, nephew Froston Back, and niece Shelly Keener. 

Joy is survived by brother Pat Back and his wife Charon of Salina, Oklahoma; brothers Jimmy Canoe of Sachse, Texas and Fabian Keener of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; sister Wyanetta Springwater of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; and many other family members and friends.

Joy's family will hold a graveside service where her urn will be placed in the Ross Mayes Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.