Betty A. Joyce "Popo"

Betty Joyce, "Popo" age 70 of Gary,In passed away April 10,2026. She was born on June 5, 1955, to her parents, the late Margaret Gregory-Joyce and John Joyce. She was the youngest of Among her siblings, Margaret Joyce, Maxine Joyce, and John Joyce preceded her in death, while she leaves behind her surviving siblings: Lillie Pearl Joyce, Bertha Mae Joyce-James, Jessie Mae Joyce, and JT Joyce.
Betty was a devoted mother to her two children, daughter Alffreda Vickerso-Wade (husband Damon Wade) and son Donta McHenry. Motherhood gave her a profound sense of purpose, reminding her that she was never alone and that she carried the responsibility of nurturing and guiding her children.Beyond her career, Betty found immense joy in her growing family. She was a proud grandmother of four—Donita Harris, Donyavuai "Pooh" Pompy, Courtney "Bam Bam" Davis, and Donta "Ron Ron" McHenry Jr.—and a great-grandmother of four—Joshua "Lil Rascal" Haynes Jr., Jalonni Pompy, Devonire Glass Jr., and Malachi Craig.
Her professional journey was equally remarkable. Betty dedicated over 30 years of service to the City of Gary, Indiana. Through her hard work and perseverance, she not only built a lasting career but also made history as the first Black woman in her field of work. Her contributions and trailblazing spirit earned her recognition as a Pioneer Woman of Gary, Indiana. Wake Friday April 24,2026 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Funeral 11:00 a.m. all services at Unity NDC Church 435 Hobart St. Gary,In. Interment Oak Hill Cemetery Gary,In. Services Entrusted To Powell-Coleman Funeral Home.