Jonesboro, GA — Mayor Joy Brantley Day, a stalwart figure in Jonesboro’s civic landscape, received the prestigious Certificate of Distinction from the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute. This honor, presented during the Georgia Municipal Association’s Annual Mayors’ Day Conference, underscores her decades-long commitment to public service and leadership excellence.
Day’s career spans diverse roles, reflecting her deep dedication to education and community governance. Starting as a third-grade teacher at Lee Street Elementary School in 1971, she progressed through Clayton County Public Schools, eventually retiring as a respected principal after 35 years. Her educational journey includes studies at Georgia State University and Tift College, shaping her into a seasoned educator and administrator.
In 1996, Day embarked on a new path as Mayor of Jonesboro, serving with distinction until 2007 and again from 2012 to 2022. Her tenure was marked by transformative initiatives and a steadfast commitment to enhancing the city’s welfare. Under her stewardship, Jonesboro flourished, benefiting from her visionary leadership and tireless advocacy.
Reflecting on her tenure, Day expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Jonesboro’s growth. “The city of Jonesboro has been a positive force in my life,” she remarked. “Thank you for the work, the opportunity, the chance to be creative, to feel a sense of accomplishment not to mention the tears and laughter along the way.”
Day’s decision to step down in August 2022, announced with a mix of emotions, underscores her prioritization of family while leaving behind a legacy of effective governance and community empowerment. Her departure will be marked by a special election to fill the remainder of her term, a testament to her impact and the respect she commands among city residents.
As Jonesboro prepares to celebrate Day’s contributions and inaugurate the new City Center, her absence will be keenly felt but her legacy will endure as a beacon of leadership and dedication to public service.
