Joyce Marie Thomas

Joyce Marie Thomas, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend, gained her heavenly wings on October 6, 2025, at home surrounded by family. Born on April 29, 1952, in Evansville, Indiana, to the late John and Susie Thomas, Joyce was a devoted servant of the lord, and her life reflected so.

Joyce was a proud graduate of Central High School. She was a faithful and active member of Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church for over 20 years, where she joyfully sang in the choir and served as an usher. Her powerful voice filled the sanctuary, but it was her warm spirit and gentle heart that truly ministered to others.

For more than two decades, Joyce worked at The Pantry, as well as other convenience stores throughout her life. She was known for her radiant smile, caring nature, and the way she uplifted everyone she met. Her famous greetings, “Hey baby” and “Hi baby”, brought comfort and laughter to those around her. Her actions of love and service spoke louder than words ever could.

Joyce enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, especially playing cards and bingo, and she cherished every moment spent with her family and friends. To know Joyce was to love her. She is the rock of her family; the glue that held everyone together. She taught us strength and humility by example of her love that was pure and unconditional. Though we will miss her warm embrace, bright smile, and that infamous “Hey Baby!”, we find comfort in knowing she has heard, “Well done my good and faithful servant”.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, John and Susie Thomas; her only brother, Billy Frank Thomas; her granddaughters, Dekiesha Dominque Marie Thomas & Ariel Dortch; her grandmothers, Bessie Sharp and Leona Robinson; and her bonus mother, Grace Wilson.

Joyce leaves to cherish her precious memory, her loving daughter, Debra Thomas-Rogers (Jeffery); granddaughter, Teliah Thomas; great-grandchildren, Vincent Thomas-Gray, Marika Gray, Mariah Gray, Maliah Hall, MakiLyn McNeal, and Makyri McNeal; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends who will miss her deeply.

Joyce’s legacy of love, laughter, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.