Joyce L. Owens

J oyce Laverne Owens was born on May 28, 1950 in Washington, DC to Marie Elizabeth and the late James McKinnery Owens. On Sunday, April 8, 2012 Joyce heard the whisper of her name and responded to the Lord’s call and will as she did with so many things in her life: quietly, and with courage, strength and dignity. Joyce was a beautiful child, fourth born in a family of nine. Her loving ways, easy smile, and quick acceptance of others endeared her to many. Joyce graduated from Baltimore City Public Schools and continued professional development at Social Security Administration where she worked for many years. Most recently she served as manager for the St. Stephen’s Court apartments where she quickly earned the trust and respect of the residents. Joyce always considered her most important job to be that of a good mother and friend. She was loving and unwavering in support and commitment to her son, Anthony (Pepe), and daughter, Charlene (Scooter). Joyce was especially devoted to her granddaughters, Teresa and Teonna. She loved them unconditionally; no sacrifice was too great for the “T” girls. Her home was always open to their friends and the children of her siblings. She was auntie to some, Grandma to many, but loved by all. Joyce was good at nick names—if she gave you a nick name, you were part of her extended family forever. She was a woman of wisdom who sought opportunities to teach and learn from life’s lessons. Ask her a question and you were in for a lengthy discussion which resulted in your making decisions. You could tell Joyce anything and trust that it would go no further. If she liked you, she loved you. Joyce truly had a selfless spirit of giving. Joyce was great fun. She was the diva of the family: stylishly dressed, 95.9 playing on the radio, sunglasses on sunshine or clouds, morning or night, fingernails done to perfection, and hair always in place. Her cooking was legendary. Joyce’s macaroni and cheese was requested at all family gatherings while her potato salad and home made cakes would quickly disappear. She was a good partner at playing Spades who could make you laugh to distraction while she was winning and you were losing. Joyce was simply a very special person. She asked for very little but gave much. Her devotion to her mother, long time companion, Eugene, and uncle, Clarence was unquestionable. Her ability to develop special relationships with others resulted in friendships that lasted for years. Even if she had not seen you in a long time, Joyce could make you feel that it was just yesterday. She was always ready to help and would go out of her way for family and friends. Joyce leaves to celebrate her life and legacy her soul mate, Eugene Moultrie; mother, Marie Elizabeth Owens; children, Anthony Owens ( and Roselyn) and Charlene Brightful (and Temar); grandchildren, Teresa, Teonna, Terrana , Shawntae , Dominique , and Simone; two brothers, James (Mack) and Michael; two sisters, Mary Owens Southall and Donna Wilson; a sister-in-law, Cynthia Owens; two brother-in-laws, Donald Wilson and Anthony Southall; a special friend Lee and godchild, Michelle Atkins; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. We thank God for the blessing and privilege of having Joyce in our lives. We love her so much but God loved her more. Her work here is done. Joyce, we will always love and hold you dear in our hearts. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Tributes

Joyce L. Owens

May 28, 1950 - April 8, 2012