Joyce Ann Tapley Poe, born on September 6, 1947, in Birmingham, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the age of 78 in Panama City, Florida. Her journey through life was marked by dedication, compassion, and a deep commitment to her Lord, family and community.
Joyce earned her degree to become a registered nurse, a calling she fulfilled with distinction for over twenty-five years at Vanderbilt Hospital, where she specialized as a Cardiac Nurse. Throughout her career, she had the privilege of meeting many wonderful and influential individuals who touched her life. Joyce's professional expertise and empathetic nature left an indelible mark on the hearts of countless patients, families, and friends.
In May of 2025, Joyce moved to Port St. Joe, Florida, from Smyrna, Tennessee, embracing a new chapter in her life. There, she was well-known in her neighborhood for her love of walking and visiting with neighbors, a pastime that brought her joy and a sense of connection to her surroundings. Joyce also cherished the memories of traveling with her husband and family exploring the beauty of the country together.
Joyce was a devout Christian, with her faith playing an integral role in her life. As a believer in Jesus Christ, she had the honor of teaching Bible study at New Vision Baptist Church in Murfreesboro, TN, for many years where she fostered both spiritual growth and strong community bonds through her leadership and volunteerism. Her proudest accomplishments are undoubtedly rooted in her steadfast faith and her unwavering support of those around her.
Joyce is survived by her beloved husband of fifty-eight years, Eugene Poe, and their son, Michael Poe and daughter-in-love Karen, who reside in Port St. Joe, Florida. She delighted in her role as Nana to Olivia and Reed Todd and Austin Hillman, and her heart overflowed with joy for her great-grandchildren, Grayson Reed Todd, Ellie Ruth Todd and Collins Monroe Todd, whose lives she cherished deeply.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Dean Darvin Tapley and Niecy Brasher Tapley, as well as her sister, Rose Parker. Joyce Poe's legacy of love, compassion, and faith will continue to resonate through the lives she touched and the memories created during her remarkable journey.
Joyce was an animal lover and frequently made donations to the St Joseph Bay Humane Society in Port St Joe, Florida. In lieu of flowers, you can carry on her loving tradition by providing a donation "In Memory of Joyce Poe" to them at the link or mailing them a check at the address below: Donation Link: https://www.sjbhumanesociety.org/donate-now (Address: St Joseph Humane Society, 1007 10th Street, Port St. Joe, FL 32456)
A Celebration of Life will be planned for a future date.
Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
601 Long Avenue, Port Saint Joe, FL 32456

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