Joyce Ann Rivers

Pastor Joyce Ann (Long) Rivers was born on March 3, 1950 in Wynne Arkansas to Hercules and Laverne (Futrell) Long. Both parents preceded her in death along with her beloved husband of Forty years Leonard Rivers, as well as her sister Donna (Long) White, and brothers Curtis Long and Tommy Long. Joyce Peacefully departed this life at Lake of Monclova in Maumee Ohio on June 20, 2024.
Joyce accepted Christ at a very young age, she was a member and baptized at First Baptist Church in Wynne, Arkansas. She was educated and proudly completed High School graduating from Childress High in Wynne. After completing school, she then moved to Toledo Ohio.
Joyce started her life at the University of Toledo, Studying Nursing. She began working at ProMedica Health Systems where her passion for service and caring for others was ignited. Her greatest passion and Love was created with the birth of her Amazing son Gerald Aldridge.
Joyce went on to serve the Toledo Public School (TPS) system for almost Forty years. After that outstanding journey she retired. Throughout those years she touched the hearts and lives of many, inspiring them with her beautiful smile and infinite words of wisdom.
She became a Faithful and Dedicated Servant at Bible Way Temple, renewing her faith in God she was baptized again by the Late Bishop Dr. Carl E. Mitchell Sr. As a true Missionary Loving and dedicated to the work of the Lord she was a Sunday school teacher, Pastors Aid and Choir member. Later becoming a respected and influential Evangelist, she continued her studies and was Ordained Pastor Joyce Rivers by Bishop Thomas G. Mitchell Sr.. Her love of ministry kept her delightfully engaged in serving the church in every possible way. Her community outreach led her on paths to touch and lead many to salvation in Hospitals, Nursing Homes, even high and low risk detention centers. She was a relentless soldier on the battlefield for the Lord. Her Love for the Lord was an amazing testament of her unwavering faith.
Her compassion and Love shined through to so many in her life's journey, she was a Devoted Wife, Adoring Mother, Loving Sister, Cherished Aunt and Loyal Friend. Her love and kindness was a beautiful reflection of the joy she rose with every day. No words can be expressed or truly sum up what her transitioning from this earthly dwelling means. To say she will be missed just seems like an understatement. Her amazing smile, loving touch and those perfect words of encouragement were all amazing Gems that each and every person that ever crossed her path received.
Joyce leaves to cherish her love and precious memories with her son Gerald Aldridge of Toledo Ohio, sisters Vera (Long) Robbins of Milwaukee Wisconsin, Brenda (Long) Williams of Inglewood California, Brothers Willie Long and Edward Long (Deborah Long) of Milwaukee Wisconsin. A host of Nieces and Nephews, Cousins, God Daughters Monica and Brandy and friends near and far.
A Special Thank You to the many that aided in the Care of Joyce over the past few years.
It is our Hope that our Love's Bright Spirit will live on through us all and we will all strive to stay Faithful and Always Love the Lord. Rest in Love Job Well Done Pastor Joyce Rivers!