Joyce Ann Coates

Joyce Ann (Edmonds) Coates, 87, of Chesapeake, VA., passed away peacefully at home Saturday, April 19 surrounded by family and friends. Joyce was born December 9, 1937, in Danville, VA. She was the daughter of the late Charles Brady Edmonds and Ethel (Stallings) Edmonds. She married her husband, Bob, in 1956; the young couple met when Bob was brought home by Joyces' cousin Hubert when both men were in the Navy. They would have been married for 69 years this year.
In addition to her parents, Joyce was predeceased by her brother Kenneth Edmonds, her granddaughter Kristyn Tate and nephew Kevin Edmonds. She is survived by her loving husband Robert Coates; their children Kimberly Kowalsky (Daniel), son Mark Coates (Marge), sister-in-law Judy (Waid) Edmonds, grandson Ruben (Trey) Ratliff III, grandson-in-law Benjamin Tate, great-grandson Gavyn Ratliff and great-granddaughter Reagan Leigh.
Joyce had many aunts and uncles and came from a very large family and often could be found playing with her many cousins. She was devoted to her faith and was a steadfast member of Great Bridge Baptist Church for decades. Joyce loved travelling, gardening, cooking, poking around in her yard, crafts, ceramics, painting, Christmas movies, baking and volunteering as a "Room Mom" when her children were in elementary school. Joyce had a genuine love for her children and her nieces and nephews. She had a kind heart and cherished all her family and friends.
Calling hours will be held Thursday, May 1, from 6:00-8:00 pm., at the Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, 524 Cedar Rd., Chesapeake. A memorial service will be held Friday, May 2, at 11:00 am., at Great Bridge Baptist Church, 640 S. Battlefield Blvd., Chesapeake. A short viewing will also take place from 10:00-11:00 am prior to the memorial service.