Joyce Reed

Joyce Reed obituary

Joyce Reed

Joyce Reed Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Whigham Funeral Home on Sep. 9, 2025.

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Mrs. Joyce Crew-Reed..."Mommy Joyce"

Joyce Crew-Reed was born on January 29, 1934, in Newark, NJ, to the union of the late Nathan and Olga James as their only child. On September 3, 2025, she passed away unexpectedly.

Affectionately known as "Mommy Joyce", she was very outspoken and never hesitated to speak her mind. Her words, though sometimes tough, were always full with love and wisdom. In her later years, she spent a lot of time with one of her great-great grands, "little caretaker," Janelle. They enjoyed cooking and doing their nails together. Her ferocious spirit and quick wit will

be cherished by all who knew her.

Mommy Joyce was educated through the Newark Public School System and graduated from Weequahic High School in 1953. She then enlisted in the United States Navy and served until 1955 where she met and married her husband, Booker T. Crew. They had one loving daughter, Paula King.

Following her honorable discharge from the military, Mommy Joyce worked in the United States Postal Service, Elizabeth General Hospital and later retired from the United States Postal Service, D.V.D Facility after over 25 years of dedicated services.

Mommy Joyce was a true believer in Christ and a faithful member of Saint James A.M.E. Church in Newark, NJ for over 50 years. She served under Pastor William D. Watley and Pastor Reverend Dr. Ronald L. Slaughter where she participated in several ministries such as: The Missionary Society, Instrument of Praise Dance Ministry, St. James Breakfast Group and the Secret Pal Club. She was also a proud member of various Newark Community Groups: the Union Chapel, Metropolitan and Bethany Senior Centers.

Mommy Joyce departed this life on September 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Her legacy lives on as she leaves to cherish fond memories with her devoted daughter, Paula King (Harry); foster children Kenya, Oliva and Walter; grandchildren: Lisa Cullen (James), Bryan King (Estelle), Johshawntal King; great-grandchildren: Shantae Chisolm, Sean Chisolm, Jasmine Garmony, Ayja King, Bryan King, Jr., Ania King, Ivryohna King, Maria Brown, Jasir and Jasiah: goddaughter, Janet Mack (Darren), Special friend-Mabel Phipps. Twelve great-great-grandchildren and a host of family and friends.

In sadness of her death, but much appreciation for her life, we remember Mommy Joyce and acknowledge the significance, inspiration and value she has brought to the lives of those she touched and loved. But rest now at the end of your days. Rest in the hearts of those who loved you. We miss you and love you infinitely.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Lisa Mckithen

September 10, 2025

My deepest sympathy to the family ,and friends of this dearly beloved jewel "Joyce " . I had the pleasure of meeting her more than 30 years ago. She was a very dear friend to my sister, Janet Yvette Mckithen Mack. Their relationship was more than friendship. They formed a relationship of love and, trust. Joyce referred to Janet as a godaughter, and Janet referred to Joyce as a godmother. Joyce was like family to our family. She would attend family events with us. She´s also visited to Florence South Carolina. Joyce was a fun lady to be around... She didn´t meet strangers, if there was a party she would join in and, we´d have many good times together... To know her was to truly love her. She was blessed by God to have the gift of longevity. So for someone to experience as much as she had. She lived, laughed, loved, and so her journey here was to be no more so she left a legacy for you. As long as you can remember, she now lives in your heart.

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Whigham Funeral Home

580 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102

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