Joy A. Stroup

Joy Stroup, 88, passed away at The Sterling Place in Mt. Sterling, Ohio, surrounded by her family on April 1, 2026.

Born on June 18, 1937, in Kingston, Ohio, Joy was the daughter of Mamie and Floyd Anderson. She lived a life defined by service, faith, and generosity.

Joy was a dedicated business owner who spent over 30 years running Ben and Joy’s Restaurant in Mt Sterling Oh. Through her work, she became known not just for her cooking, but for her unwavering belief that no one should go hungry—often feeding anyone in need, regardless of their ability to pay.

She was deeply rooted in her faith and committed to serving others through the Inner City Mission in Columbus Oh. Here she earned the affectionate nickname “the chicken lady” from her church family. Joy was also a gifted pianist, sharing her music across many churches and bringing comfort and joy to those around her.

Joy loved the Lord first and foremost, and she loved her family—both blood and church family—wholeheartedly. Her life was a reflection of compassion, humor, strength, and devotion.

She is survived by her children Skip McCabe, Robin Bucalo, Cindy Skinner, and her grandchildren Shannon Kitchen, Jeremy McCabe, Josh McCabe, Courtney McCabe, Cassie Skinner, Cindy Stroup, Benny Stroup, Terry Stroup, Kirby Day, Jimmy Holstein, Angie Marshall, Ardelle Noggle, Rick Heise, Doug Heise, and Chasity Heise, along with countless great-grandchildren.

Joy will be remembered for her deep relationship with Jesus, her endless contributions to the Inner City Mission, her music, her restaurant, and the way she loved and cared for her family and community.

Visitation will be held on SATURDAY, April 11, 2026, from 1:00 PM-4:00 PM, at the PORTER-TIDD FUNERAL HOME, 331 W. Main Street, Mt. Sterling, Ohio, 43143. Funeral Service will immediately follow the visitation at 4:00 PM.