Joyce Marie Golden

1946 - 2025

Joyce Marie Golden
02/07/1946 - 11/18/2025
Joyce Marie Golden, age 80, was born on February 7, 1945, in Berkeley, California to Ruth E. Williams and Joseph Oscar Williams Sr. She was the third child and first daughter of six siblings. She passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025 in Palm Springs, California in the company of loved ones.
Being a "baby sister" to two older brothers, Joyce grew up in the Oakland Boys Club, where she won the coveted "Little Sister's Beauty Contest" at the ripe age of four. Driven by an endless thirst for knowledge, Joyce was a life-long learner. She graduated from Castlemont High School in 1962 with honors, and earned a Bachelor's in Sociology and a MBA from California State University, Hayward.
On May 21, 1965, Joyce married the love of her life, William (Paul) Golden, in a quiet and private ceremony in Reno, California. From that union, she gave birth to their only son, Shawn Patrick Golden (deceased). In her early career, Joyce worked for seven years as a third grade teacher for the Murray's School District in Dublin, California. Always persistent and thorough, she was nominated for the prestigious teacher of the year award.
Among the many milestones in her life, Joyce joined Arthur Andersen as a CPA and launched her accomplished career in finance. As a much sought after financial executive, she was recruited by both Bank of America and the San Francisco Newspaper Agency. Her exceptional business acumen and passion for all things financial was noticed by National Geographic Magazine, where she joined the executive team and moved across the country to Washington, DC. After a productive tenure, Joyce launched her own successful consulting company, SPG & Associates, named after her late son, Shawn, a feat that underscored her determination and tenacity, and highlighted her ability to overcome challenges with fortitude.
Joyce had many interests, including serving on several non-profit boards that provided her the opportunity to give back to her community. She loved opera, theater, and live music, which included seeing one of her favorite artists, Nancy Wilson. Joyce was also an avid fitness enthusiast and always rose early for her 'not to be missed' personal training sessions. As a spirited conversationalist living in the DC area, Joyce gained an astute interest in politics which led her and family members to attend both historic inaugurations of President Barack Obama.
Anyone who knew Joyce was amazed at her impeccable sense of style, always turning heads when she entered a room. Be it her oversized statement jewelry or immaculately detailed home decor, she was often sought after for creative advice. There is even a rumor that she once brought decorative drapes to an outdoor cabin in Yosemite!
Joyce was self-assured, savvy and an exceptional mother to Shawn. Her brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews have fond memories of heart-felt interactions with (Aunt) Joyce. She listened avidly and then earnestly imparted life lessons through research and fact-based evidence of all potential paths. Whether engaging you at family gatherings on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve or visiting her home in DC, she was known to spoil her guests with meals out, shopping trips and shows.
In 2018, she and Paul permanently returned to California and split their time between Oakland and Palm Springs.
She touched the lives of everyone who had the honor of knowing her. Her generous spirit, perseverance and understated humor will be remembered forever. She led a remarkable life that will remain an inspiration. She will be greatly missed.
Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Paul; one brother, Robert E. Williams (Aleta); two sisters, Patricia A. Scates (Roosevelt - deceased) and Elaine D. Evans (Timothy), and a host of nieces and nephews, family and friends. Joyce was preceded in death by the light of her life, her beloved son Shawn. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two older brothers J. Oscar Williams Jr. and James E. Williams.