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Joyce Moss-Clay Obituary
06/06/1937 - 09/21/2022
Joyce L. Fails Moss-Clay, 85, celebrated life's end on the earth and transitioned on September 21, 2022. A Memorial Service celebrating her life will be held Saturday, October 8, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew's United Methodist Church, 4300 North Shepherd Drive, Houston, Texas. Reverend Deborah Vaughn will officiate.
Joyce was a life-long educator who left her mark on the lives of many people, young and old, throughout her 40 plus years of service and advocacy for children. She began her career in HISD as a Vocational Education teacher at Worthing High School in the late 1950s and went on to teach at several other schools in the district before entering administration. A few of the positions she cherished most included: Director of Enrichment Programs, Director of the Superintendent's Leadership Institute, and Deputy Superintendent for Facilities Management and Operations (FMO). She retired from HISD in 1994 and went on to serve as principal of her beloved St. James Episcopal School for three years. She ended her professional career as an independent educational consultant.
Joyce was known for her strong faith and devoted work for many years in the Episcopal Church. She eventually moved her membership to Abiding Faith United Methodist Church to worship alongside her husband Monte. One of Joyce's greatest passions was gardening. She absolutely loved being in the yard caring for her beautiful flowers and trees. She and husband Monte also loved to entertain. Their home was a beautiful haven of the love they shared with each other and their many family members and friends.
Joyce leaves to cherish many beautiful memories: her beloved husband of 32 years, Monarchie "Monte" Clay, Jr.; one daughter: Tina Moss Sims (Michael) and one brother: James "Butch" Fails. Through her marriage to Monte: one stepson: Johnnie Wells, Jr. (Jackie); two stepdaughters: Monique Clay Cumbo (predeceased) and Monica Clay Saffold (Jeffrey); two sisters-in-law: Cecelia Perry Steptoe and Cynthia Briggs Eagleton (Gary); and two brothers-in-law: Seamon Clay (Janice) and Cornell Gaten (Johnie). Joyce was previously married to Levi Moss, Sr. From that union: one stepson: Levi Moss, Jr. (predeceased) and daughter-in-law: Barbara Moss. Joyce is also survived by 12 loving grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and treasured friends.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joyce Moss-Clay
6 Entries
Keith Labrie
October 2, 2022
For Joyce's selfless contributions to the welfare of others she will be remembered. Her dedication to the profession of growing young minds is woven throughout her life. Now in peace she will rest from her labor.
Jeannette Malveaux
October 2, 2022
Forever remembered, forever loved. Hold on to those memories closest to your heart.
God´s grace and peace to the family.
Jeannette Malveaux
Linda Austin
October 1, 2022
To Monte & Family
I extend my deepest heartfelt condolences to you.
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Linda Austin
Neighbor for the past 30 years
Betty Stewart
October 1, 2022
Joyce was blessed in so many ways through out her life. The love and support of her husband was at the top of her list. The love and friendship they shared with each other was priceless. To God be the glory for all He has done for both of them.
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Pat Walsh
October 1, 2022
May the family be comforted when knowing Joyce is resting in the presence of her heavenly Father. The Bible tells us to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.
Frances M Yarbrough
October 1, 2022
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
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