Joyce McGuire Johnson

With deep love and cherished memories, we celebrate the life of Joyce McGuire Johnson. After a long and courageous battle with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Joyce transitioned peacefully on July 3rd 2025, at VCU Health Center. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, joy, and unconditional love.
Joyce was born on July 8th 1944, to the late Jackie and Christine McGuire in Cauthorneville, Virginia. She accepted Christ at a young age and became a devoted member of Beulah Baptist Church, Minor, VA where her faith in The Lord blossomed and remained the foundation of her life. Joyce was educated in the King and Queen County Public Schools. She then attended Smith Madden Business College, in Richmond, VA.
Joyce had a long and fulfilling career dedicated to public service. She worked for the Department of Defense and U.S. Department of Agriculture, contributing her skills and dedication to the federal government. She also served in the Essex County Public School and the King and Queen Public School Systems, where she impacted the lives of countless students and colleagues with her kindness and commitment to education. Joyce's work reflected her deep belief in service, community, and making a difference wherever she was needed.
Joyce was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. Joyce was preceded in death by her devoted husband, William Rogers Johnson; her precious great-grandchildren Stoni and Dylan Heath; and a brother in law, Robert Ransome.
She leaves to cherish her memory two loving daughters, Lisa and Chante Johnson; three grandchildren, Nikeia Heath (Micheal) Jasmyn Belser (Brian), and Sarai Taylor; along with six great-grandchildren Izaiah Hill, Khaiyon Heath, Collin Belser, Ryan Bradley, Kali Heath, and Karter Belser. Joyce is also survived by her sister, Evelyn Ransome; two brothers, Calvin McGuire (Joyce) and Ralph McGuire (Joan); a brother-in-law, William Rich; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, whose lives she touched with her vibrant spirit and generous heart.
Joyce was truly the life of the party-her presence lit up every room, and her laughter, energy, and warmth were felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She loved the Lord with all her heart and lived her life in a way that reflected His grace, joy, and love.
Joyce's life was a beautiful testimony of joy, resilience, and deep faith. She will be profoundly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who loved and knew her. The family wishes to acknowledge and extend special thanks to Valencia Thomas, Deacon Tony Lamb, Leonard Houston, and Nellie Johnson for their unwavering kindness, support, and prayers.
A funeral service will be held 11AM Friday, July 11, 2025, at Essex High School, 833 High School Circle, Tappahannock, VA 22560. Viewing will begin 9:30AM-11AM just prior to services at the school. Interment to follow in the First Baptist Church of Loretto Church cemetery.