Joyce Beatrice Matthews

Life Reflections Mrs. Joyce Beatrice Edmonds Matthews was born Sunday, December 5, 1926 to the union of Mr. Ellis Edwards and Ms. Lillie Winston in Starkville, Mississippi. Joyce confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and united with Christ Southern Mission Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Hermon Gore, Jr., Pastor. The family moved to St. Louis, Missouri when she was six years of age, but she was educated in the Illinois Public School System attending Johnson Elementary and Lincoln High Schools. In 1951 she met James Edward Matthews and was later joined in holy matrimony. To this union one daughter was born, Mary Louise. They both preceded her in death. She worked many years as a domestic worker with private families. From this experience she was able to grandfather her way in and trained with the State of Missouri. She earned several certificates. This opportunity led her to be an advocate to families in the African American Community. Educating them on conflict resolution, incest, abuse, and living with health issues such asthma, diabetes, and hyper- tension. Joyce even took the time to help families understand the problems they faced due to skin color, hair texture and poverty. She was a pillar in her community where she resided for over 40 years and earned awards for the most beautiful lawn 3 times. Joyce's most favorite thing was traveling. She organized casino trips and loved going fishing with her grandchildren. She also enjoyed many cruises in her 93 years. Joyce always told everyone (Live your life to the fullest while you can, time don't wait on nobody). On Saturday, January 11, 2020 the Angel of Death visited her in her home. Her loving memory will be cherished by her grandchildren, Byron James, Otis Siddell, Jr. (Toni Siddell) and Karen Siddell-Foney (Darryl foney); great-great-grandchildren, Wesley, Shamika, BJ,III, Akeya, Jeremy, Jasmin, Heather, Jeffery, Angela and Angelica; and 16 great-great-great-grandchildren. Interment: Laurel Hill Cemetery2000 N. PennsylvaniaPagedale, MO 63133 . Visitation Williams-James Mortuary, Inc. - Chapel Saturday, January 18, 2020 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM 1424 Dielman RoadSt. Louis, MO 63132 Directions Funeral Service Williams-James Mortuary, Inc. - Chapel Saturday, January 18, 2020 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1424 Dielman RoadSt. Louis, MO 63132 Directions