Joyce Marie Williams

Joyce Marie Williams, née McElroy, was born on April 24, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois. A woman of deep faith and joyful spirit, Joyce accepted Christ at an early age at St. Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago Heights and later renewed her commitment to Christ in the early 2000s. In 2017, she became a devoted member of The Word Worship Center in Park Forest, where she faithfully worshiped and served. If the church doors were open, Joyce was there-often with hands raised in praise and a joyful spirit that could be felt by everyone around her.

Joyce cherished her East (Ford) Heights roots and loved sharing stories of growing up in a close-knit community where everyone knew one another and looked out for each other. She was a proud graduate of Bloom Township High School, Class of 1970. Throughout her career-including her work with Special Olympics Chicago, Ada S. McKinley Educational Services, and in the legal field-Joyce was known for her compassion and her genuine desire to help others succeed and navigate life's challenges.

Above all, Joyce loved people. She showed that love through acts of kindness big and small-supporting family at games, organizing gatherings, volunteering at church events, and always showing up for those she cared about. Joyce will be remembered for her warm smile, infectious laugh, and unwavering support of family, friends, and community.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Dameon (Jovan) Williams and DeAnna (Ernest) Smith; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her siblings; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends whose lives were touched by her love and generosity.