Cody Jay Joss
November 16, 1982 ~ June 3, 2025
Born in:
Burlington, Wisconsin
Resided in:
Franklin, Tennessee
Cody Jay Joss – November 16, 1982 – June 3, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Cody Jay Joss, age 42, of Franklin, Tennessee, who left this world on June 3, 2025, due to injuries sustained in a van accident. While his loss has left an aching void, his legacy of unwavering courage, boundless kindness, and deep connection to everyone he met will forever echo in the hearts of all who knew him. Cody was born on November 16, 1982, in Burlington, Wisconsin. Cody lived in many places, collecting memories and friends in each – Twin Lakes, WI, Downers Grove, IL, Cedarburg, WI, Naperville, IL, Kansas City, MO, and finally, Franklin, TN. Cody graduated from Centennial High School in 2001 in Franklin, TN.
A bright future was ahead of him, but at a young age, Cody faced a life-altering injury while vacationing in Cancun, Mexico. Paralyzed by the accident, Cody’s strength was tested like never before. But what could have been an obstacle became his greatest opportunity to inspire. With the loving support of his family, countless surgeries, and relentless determination, Cody embraced life with remarkable grace and resilience.
Cody continued his journey by attending the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where he graduated in 2006. His professional career began alongside his brother Zac and future sister-in- law Sarah, and it was here that Cody’s true character shone through: his sharp intellect, his dependability, and his infectious spirit. He later took a leap of faith and joined Bridgestone, where he flourished over the course of 18 years. What began as a job quickly became a second home—Bridgestone embraced Cody not just as an employee, but as a valued family member. It was there that Cody found joy, belonging, and fulfillment, creating lifelong friendships along the way.
A devoted Chicago Cubs fan, Cody’s life was enriched by the presence of his beloved service dog, Wrigley—named after the iconic Wrigley Field. Wrigley was not just a companion, but a source of strength, offering Cody confidence, comfort, and a sense of purpose. Their bond was inseparable, and we take comfort in knowing that Wrigley was there to greet Cody in Heaven, just as he had been there on Earth, ever loyal and loving.
Cody later welcomed his second service dog, Justice, who brought the same profound connection and joy into his life. On the day of Cody’s passing, Justice miraculously escaped injury and returned home to alert Mark and Barb, a final act of unwavering loyalty that speaks to the deep love they shared.
Cody’s strength and spirit were nurtured by his father, Mark Joss, whose steadfastness taught him resilience; by his mother, Barbara Joss, whose warmth and compassion shaped his kind heart; and by his brother, Zachary Joss, whose adventurous spirit mirrored his own. Cody’s sister, McKenzie Joss, wasn’t just his sibling—she was his closest confidante and best friend. Together, they shared a unique, irreplaceable bond that was built on love and mutual care. Cody also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Sarah Joss, and his two young nephews, Finley and Fisher Joss, who adored their Uncle Cody, learning from his strength, humor, and grace. His light will continue to guide them as they grow.
To know Cody was to be touched by his light. His presence was magnetic, bringing people together with a touch, a smile, or a word of encouragement. No matter the obstacles he faced, Cody’s indomitable spirit shined brightly. He never let his disability define him; instead, he used it as a means to inspire, to show others that strength lies not in what we can do, but in how we face the challenges that life throws at us. Cody truly lived life to the fullest, finding joy in every moment, and teaching us all to cherish every view life offers.
Cody leaves behind a legacy of love, humor, and deep empathy. He will not be remembered for the struggles he faced, but for the incredible strength, compassion, and grace he shared with all who crossed his path. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his spirit endures, lighting the way for all who knew him.
Cody’s final gift was as an organ donor, saving four lives through his selfless donation of his kidneys and heart. In this, as in all things, he continued to give.
A Memorial Service for Cody will be held 1:30 p.m., Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Rolling Hills Community Church (Franklin Campus), 1810 Columbia Ave Franklin, TN 37064 – South Entrance.
Visitation the family will be held on Saturday prior to the service a Rolling Hills Community Church (Franklin Campus) from 12:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m.
Cody enjoye going to the downtown Franklin. We will hold a special reception at The Harpeth Franklin (130 2nd Avenue N., Franklin, TN 37064) at 4:00 p.m. with food, story telling, games, and music in honor of Cody.
In lieu of flowers, we are raising funds to dedicate a bench at one of Cody’s favorite parks, a special place where we can come together to remember and celebrate the beautiful life Cody lived. Please see GoFundMe link. https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-create-codys-memorial-bench?attribution_id=sl:dd9a1548-c101-454c-90a9-fd499d135f73&lang=en_US&ts=1750276362&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_dash&utm_content=amp13_t1-amp14_t2-amp15_t3&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&v=amp14_t2
Arrangements are in the care of: Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, 6949 Charlotte Pike, Suite 104., Nashville, TN 37209. (615) 857-9955. We are proud to be locally owned and operated.
Services
Visitation: June 21, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Rolling Hills Community Church (Franklin Campus)
1810 Columbia Ave.
Franklin , TN 37064 (South Entrance)
Celebration of Life: June 21, 2025 1:30 pm
Rolling Hills Community Church (Franklin Campus)
1810 Columbia Ave.
Franklin , TN 37064 (South Entrance)
Reception: June 21, 2025 4:00 pm
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Our sympathies go to this courageous man’s family. He will light up heaven as he did in his presence here on earth.
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you and your family.
He was loving in a way that made you feel seen and valued, even in the smallest moments. When you were around Cody, you could feel his intention—he truly listened. He laughed, joked, and brought lightness into every room he entered. His story, his love for his family (and his dogs), and the way he lived with such purpose and heart has always been inspiring to me.
Mark & Barb, there are no words that can lessen the weight of losing your son, but please know I am holding you close in my heart. Your love and strength helped shape the extraordinary man Cody became.
McKenzie, you and Cody shared a once-in-a-lifetime bond, and that kind of love doesn’t fade—it lives on in you. I hope you feel his presence in the little signs, the quiet moments, and the unshakable love he had for you. I’m sending you strength, love, and all my prayers for peace in the days ahead.
My heart is with the entire Joss family. May Cody’s light continue to shine through all of you, and in everyone he touched.
With love and deepest sympathy,
I will never forget how much everyone loved Wrigley. He was the highlight of everyone’s day. Wrigley never went anywhere that someone didn’t have treats for him. He even got french fries in the lunch room on Friday’s. Cody finally had to send out an email telling everyone he appreciated how much Wrigley was loved, but he had been to the vet and was a bit overweight. Wrigley was cut off from the goodies.
Sending prayers to Cody’s family.
Cody also had this swagger to him; you just gravitated to his personality, but especially his humor. In 2023, I text this quote to Cody which still rings true today – In the great words of Andy Bernard, “I wish there was a way to know you were in the good old days before you actually left them.” The good old days were in large part because of Cody. I will forever be thankful for the impact he made on my life. I never deserved Cody, but I’m a better person because of his friendship. Cody will forever hold a special place in my heart. Rest easy my friend, until we meet again.
We love you guys so much and want to extend our deepest sympathy to your whole family. Our hearts and prayers go out to you. This earth bound life is temporary and now Cody is waiting for you to join him. Families are for eternity, extending our loving bonds beyond this mortal life. Be well and know you are deeply loved, old friends!
RIP buddy! I didn’t see a GB Packers color candle so I chose an Irish color ND! LOL!
Love,
Your little bro Jc