Joyce Blackwell

March 7, 1950 - October 17, 2021

Joyce Ann Blackwell was born in Marion, South Carolina on March 7, 1950, to the late Charles and Genieve Blackwell. She gained her wings and transitioned to her heavenly home on Sunday morning (October 17) at 9:30 a.m. She now sings with the heavenly Band of Angels and joins Daddy (Charles), Mother (Genieve), and Brother (Hosea). Since Joyce grew up in a Christian home, the whole family regularly attended Sunday School and Sunday morning church. Reading the Bible, saying grace with bible verses, and regularly participating in church programs were important parts of the weekly schedules for the four Blackwell daughters (Jacqueline, Joyce, Veronica, and Laverne and one son (Hosea). All these siblings also played instruments which allowed them to develop a strong commitment for “staying the course” to complete activities. These children were encouraged to participate in community-based programs. At an early age, Joyce accepted Jesus as her personal Savior and was baptized at Mount Sinai Baptist Church in Baltimore. She regularly participated in the activities offered for children and youth. Joyce was a born leader. In the Blackwell household, being a good student was a non-negotiable requirement. The late Charles and Genieve Blackwell held all their children to high standards. Joyce attended the Baltimore City Public Schools and graduated from Eastern High School in 1968. Starting in fall1968 Joyce enrolled in Coppin State College where she pursued a degree in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood Education focus. During her time at Coppin Joyce served on the Executive Committee of the Student Government Association and was listed in Who’s Who’s in Colleges and Universities 1971-1972. While attending Coppin Joyce pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority (Zeta Epsilon Chapter,1970). After graduating from Coppin in 1972, Joyce became a primary school teacher and taught at several schools within the Baltimore City Public Schools for 40 plus years. Her students and parents loved this “pint-sized teacher.” Joyce’s dedication to teaching was an inspiration to her students, colleagues, and future teachers. She was described by parents, colleagues, and Central Administration as an exceptional teacher who cared about all children and their families.