Joyce Elaine

Willis

Ms. Joyce Elaine Willis was born on June 20, 1947, to Willie and Grace Willis in Spalding County. A revered educator over 40 years, and a pillar in the Griffin community, Ms. Joyce Elaine Willis, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, mentor, and friend transitioned peacefully on March 28, 2023, at Brightmoor Hospice.

Joyce was a graduate of Fairmont High School, and furthered her education at Albany State College (now University) and honorably served the Academic of Math, Science, and accelerated summer reading for three school systems in the State of Georgia.

On Tuesday, March 28, 2023, Ms. Joyce Elaine Willis left her earthly home to reap her just reward. She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie B. and Grace Willis; sisters, Jacqueline Willie, Sandra Odom, and Rita Coleman.

Leaving a legacy of impact, deep compassion, provision, joy, and love, she is survived by her only son, Michael (Lecia) Willis; grandson, Michael J. Willis; granddaughters, Atreona Willis, Amber Willis, and Amiyah Willis; grandson, Tyran Buckner; brother, Larry Willis; nieces, Keesha Coleman, Wanda Coleman, Sonia (Curtiss) Stancil, Jasmine Thompson, Jessica (JaCorrie) Colbert, and Iyanna (Jarrod) Washington; great granddaughter; Noa Redding; special family friend, and caretaker, Althea "Peaches" Goodman. She also leaves a host of cousins, and other relatives and friends.

A Memorial Service for Ms. Willis will be held on Friday, March 31, 2023, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel at Burden's Funeral Home. Family and friends are asked to arrive at the funeral home by 1:45 PM. Pastor Fred Blackmon is the Officiant and the Eulogist.