Deveta “Joy” (Boone) Caplinger, 77, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2024, at her home in Shelbyville, surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with liver cancer.
Born in 1947 to Howard Demotte Boone and Elda Gail Canfield Boone, Joy grew up in Milan, Indiana, and graduated from Milan High School in 1965. She earned her cosmetology license and, in 1967, married her high school sweetheart, Jerry Caplinger. Together, they settled in Shelbyville, where they started several local businesses.
Joy loved being a homemaker and was the happiest when caring for her family. She enjoyed gardening, solving puzzles, and cooking. A gifted cook, Joy delighted in preparing meals for family gatherings, especially during the holidays, and passing her recipes down through generations.
Joy was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family.
She is survived by her son, Kevin L. Caplinger of Shelbyville; daughter, Erica J. Caplinger of Carmel; her grandchildren, Jason Cherry of Chicago and Caroline Cherry of Bloomington; sister, Deanna “Gay” Demotte of Milan; as well as seven nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry L. Caplinger; daughter, Michelle “Shelly” R. Caplinger; and brother, Colonel Canfield Demotte “Buddy” Boone.
Private family services were entrusted to Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.
Online condolences may be shared with Joy’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
