Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Brandon Ussery

The Mary Joy Moosman Foundation is hosting the second annual Joy Ride from LaGrange to West Point on June 19. The ride is to commemorate the life of a young lady, Mary Joy Moosman, who lost her life in a car accident in May of 2024.

Amber Moosman, Mary Joy’s mother, created the Mary Joy Moosman Foundation. It aims to give children academic opportunities by creating scholarships. The categories for the scholarships offered include academics, soccer and competitive cheerleading. The previous year’s fundraising event raised $4500, distributed among three students in the amounts of $1500 for each student.

The amount of money for the scholarships offered is based on the funds raised during the foundation’s events.

Amber organized the ride, choosing the specific starting and ending points based on where Mary Joy spent much of her time. The ride will begin at Troup County High School, Mary Joy’s alma mater, and will end in West Point at her former workplace, Johnny’s Pizza. It starts at 6 p.m. and lasts approximately 45 minutes.

All vehicles are welcome during the ride, with a $25 registration fee in addition to a $10 cover charge to cover the cost of food and drink at Johnny’s. Currently, there are 23 vehicles registered for this year’s ride.

The store’s owner, Ben Hamilton, supports Amber’s efforts and donates proceeds from the celebration to the foundation. Mary Joy was an employee of Hamilton’s before her accident. Hamilton has also agreed to allow Moosman and the foundation to continue using Johnny’s for these events, in honor of the late Mary Joy.

Mary Joy’s life was marked by her dedication, humility and willingness to serve others. She was known for her giving nature, often volunteering her time to help others in need. She was active in her church and carried a contagious, cheerful outlook with her.

“Mary Joy worked two jobs, and she volunteered countless hours to help others. She was so humble, selfless, kind, always just full of joy,” Amber recalled.

These actions prompted her mother to create the “Little Acts of Kindness” initiative. This initiative presents an opportunity to perform unexpected, small acts that bring relief and joy to groups of people. These acts of outreach mirror the spirit Mary Joy brought to those around her.

After the ride is over, a celebration will commence at Johnny’s, featuring live music provided by local musicians Kit and Char.

For more information about the Mary Joy Moosman Foundation, including details on upcoming events, visit the foundation’s website at LoveLikeMaryJoy.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.