Joy Sudduth

With heavy hearts, the Sudduth family announces the passing of Joy Evelyn (Upson) Sudduth, also affectionately known as Nana. After a lengthy and hard-fought battle with cancer, Joy passed peacefully at her home in Westwood, Massachusetts, on August 9th, 2025.

Joy was born on April 7th, 1935 to Charles Cecil and Winifred Upson in Dagenham, Essex UK. She emigrated from England, arriving in Boston on October 16th, 1959. Joy accomplished many incredible feats in her life. As a child, she participated in field hockey, track & field, as well as ballet, and became a passionate tennis player in her adult life. She was a Secretary to the Dean at Harvard Medical School until her sons were born. Then, she became a full-time Mom at home, while also working for Westwood Industries as a Creative Specialist and giving her input on customer products.

Joy truly lived up to her name, as it was rare to see her without a smile on her face or hear her laugh ring out from any room. She was an extremely gifted quilter, an avid birdwatcher, a lover of books, and a wiz in the kitchen. An active member of First Parish of Westwood United Church of Christ, her faith was very important to her. Additionally, she was proudly part of the Daughters of the British Empire, Rhododendron Needlers Quilt Guild, and often told stories from her time as a WGBH Channel 2 Auction Volunteer. Joy brought so much love and joy (pun absolutely intended) to all those around her and will be missed dearly by her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years (one month shy of 60!), Ron Sudduth, as well as her sons Scott and Gregg, daughter-in-laws Lynn and Kim, and grandchildren Emma, Ryan, Brayden, and Jordan.

Visiting hours will be held  at the Folsom Funeral Home, 649 High Street, Westwood and a  Memorial Service at the First Parish of Westwood United Church, 252 Nahatan Street, Westwood at a time and day to be announced here shortly. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers donations to the Lang Center, New England Deaconess Hospital, 148 Chestnut Street, Needham MA 02492 would be appreciated.