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Marjorie Joyce Crelin (McCain), 93, known affectionately as “Joy”, passed away peacefully on Aug. 21, at Artis Memory Care in Branford. Born Sept. 1, 1927, in Englewood, New Jersey, Joy was the daughter of the late Walter and Clara (Van Saun) McCain of Closter, New Jersey. The youngest of four children, Joy graduated from Closter High School in 1944. She subsequently ventured out to Pella, Iowa to attend Central College where she studied education, performed in music and drama productions, led the cheerleading squad, and was crowned Homecoming Queen. It was at Central where she met and fell in love with the late Edmund S. Crelin, Jr, whom she married in 1948. The newlyweds moved to New Haven where Ed pursued his PhD at Yale University while Joy taught at Branford High School. By night, Joy was the singer in her husband’s swing band, delighting all with her lovely and expressive alto voice. After the birth of their daughter, the couple built a home on Sunset Hill Drive in Branford, where Dr. and Mrs. Crelin raised four children and lived together for over 55 years.

Joy lived up to her name as she spread light and life throughout the community. In addition to being actively involved in her children and grandchildren’s lives, Joy volunteered in many service organizations, acted in local theater productions, sang in the Branford Chorale, and was a familiar face at events about town. She was a devoted member of the Branford Congregational Church for most of her life, where she served as a deacon, sang in the choir, and pioneered the first chapter of their Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers ministry. Joy was known for her sparkling smile, charitable nature, and beautiful singing voice. She was an avid gardener and lover of music, long walks, Hershey’s kisses, coffee ice cream, flowers, birds (especially cardinals), cats, and dogs.

Joy was predeceased by her beloved husband Ed, brother Walter Jr. (Buddy), sisters Beverly and Ardith (Tiff), and special pets Clarence, Spotty, and Bootsie. She is survived by her four children, Sherry Crelin of Cumming Georgia, Edmund Crelin III (Tracy) of South Wallingford, Vermont, Robert Crelin (Suzanne) of Branford, and Carole Frassinelli (John) of Willington, in addition to 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by her family, friends, neighbors, and the many people whose lives she touched during her almost 94 years on this earth.

Joy’s family would like to extend their gratitude to special caregivers Julia, Bianca, and Ashley, who brought her much happiness and love in the later years of her life. They also wish to express their deepest appreciation to the Artis Memory Care Center, where Joy spent the final years of her life in peace and comfort surrounded by a kind and devoted staff.

The family will be holding a celebration of Joy’s life at a date yet to be determined. Please consider making a donation in her name to The Branford Compassion Club Feline Rescue and Adoption Center at branfordcompassionclub.org.