Mary Joyce Jelks

On Friday, April 18, 2025, Mary Joyce Jelks, age 86 of Bridgeport, CT entered eternal rest. Mary Joyce Jelks was born on August 02, 1938, to the late Boise Harmon and Willie Mae Litman in Alamo, Georgia. She was married for 60 years to John Wesley Jelks Sr., before he passed away in November 2022, and from that union five children were born.
Mary attended and graduated from high school in Sarasota, FL. She relocated to Bridgeport, CT in 1957. Mary worked as a central sterile processing technician at Bridgeport Hospital for over 30 years. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.
Mary, our beloved mother, was the embodiment of unconditional love. From the moment we were born, to her last breath, her love for us remained constant, unwavering, and boundless. Her love was like a warm embrace that enveloped us all, making us feel safe, cherished, and capable of anything. Mom had this incredible ability to make each of us feel special. Whether it was remembering our favorite meals, listening intently to our childhood stories for the hundredth time, or offering words of encouragement when we needed them most, she always knew exactly what we needed.
Mary loved spending time with her family, especially her grandkids and great-grandchildren. She also loved watching soap operas and discussing them daily with her sister Leola. As we say goodbye to mom today, our hearts are heavy with grief but also overflowing with gratitude. Thank you, mom, for your endless love, your unwavering support, your gentle guidance. You may no longer be with us physically, but your love will live on in our hearts forever. We love you, mom, always and forever.
She leaves to cherish her memories, her daughter Cynthia (David) of Bridgeport, CT; son John Jr, (Toni) of Dale City, VA; son Darryl Sr., (Vicki) of Bridgeport, CT; daughter Lisa (Bennett) of Hamden, CT; son Dwayne Sr., (Althea) of Bridgeport, CT. She also leaves behind nine grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
In addition, she also leaves behind the following siblings: Leola Daniels and Willie Ryals Sr.
She was predeceased by her parents; her sisters, Thelma Chapman, Laconia Smith; brother Lorenzo Herrington; and her granddaughter Jessica Jelks.