Joyce was born in Springfield, Ohio on September 14, 1938. She was the 6th and final daughter born to the union of John (James) Thomas Speakes (Ruddles Mill, Kentucky) and Genevieve Rankin Speakes of Paris, Kentucky.
Joyce was educated in the Springfield Public School System. She graduated from Springfield South High School Class of 1956. She was a proud Wildcat attending class reunions often and connecting with her classmates. She began her federal service right after graduation at Wright Patterson Air Force Base where she faithfully worked for 24 years. Upon moving to Dublin, Ohio she continued her federal service working for the Department of Housing and Urban Development until her retirement after 38 years of federal service. After retirement she decided to go back to work part-time in the Westerville Public School District as a school nurse until her retirement in 2014 after 10 years of service.
Joyce’s spiritual walk began as a child in Springfield, Ohio while attending the Church of God, Sanctified. Upon her move to Dublin, Ohio she joined Triedstone Missionary Baptist Church where she served faithfully under the leadership of Bishop Jerome H. Ross. She was an active member of the Voices of Triedstone until her move to California in 2014.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, her five sisters, Anna R. Gutierrez, Evelyn Simmons, Genevieve Amelia Humphrey, Carsena Morgan, Dolores Hardiman and special friend, Richard W. Goings.
She is survived by her daughters, Jamie D. (Gerard) Watkins and Ashle N. Speakes; grandchildren, Spencer C. Gibson, Amber M. Gibson and Genevieve M. Speakes Watkins; nieces and nephews, Rosalyn (Gandhi) Noaks, Gloria (Bob) Henry, Robert K. (Lisalotte) Edwards, Stevie L. Edwards, Charles (Rita) Jackson, Marcia Ingram, Warren Humphrey, Eric (Antionette) Humphrey, Derrick J. Morgan, Stephan (Dara) Morgan, Ramon Morgan, Roxanne Norfolk and Rochelle (Leo) Washington; special cousin, Molly Thorne and sisters and brother in love, Loraine Glenn and Loueva (William) Carr and a host of great-nieces and nephews.
Burial was held at Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, California.
She was my Favorite auntie In spite of everything.
I truly love her.
Dear Jamie, your mom was a beautiful person and now a beautiful spirit, cherish your memories. Know that I’ll be praying your strength and comfort during this very difficult time.
To Nelson, Jamie, Ashley, and my cousins and other family members. I spent a lot of time with my Aunt Joyce. I cannot count the times I travel from Michigan to Ohio. Our family loved spending many Thanksgivings with Aunt Joyce. Enjoying family and food. I am proud to be apart of the Speakes family. Our family may have different points of views, but we love each other. God will continue to bring peace to our hearts. My love is here if you need to reach out. I will keep memories of Aunt Joyce and my other aunts, and my mother. The great Speakes sisters!
My condolences to the family. Praying strength and understanding.
Much Love~
Sharon ❤️
The Bible Tells Us Weeping May Endure For The Night,But Joy Comes In The Morning,Also To Be Absent From The Body Is To Be Present With The Lord,That’s Our Prayer “ Amen & Amen “ Nate Watkins Dad
May God give immediate family peace. Jamie and Ashley our condolence’s from the Noaks family . Once our job on earth is done we have a second home.We pray for your acceptance of life’s journey.
Love ❤️ and prayers
Family of Joyce Speakes,
Joyce was a classy, very nice lady! She was always so friendly to me at church and in Springfield…We knew a lot of the same people in Springfield and Columbus..She was a lovely lady…She will be missed!
My condolences to the family of Joyce Speakes
My heartfelt condolences to Jamie and Ashley and your family during the loss of your mother! May the Peace of God Rest, Rule and Abide with you!
Peace and Blessings!
Regina – Mrs McClure sister
To Jamie and Ashley, words can’t express the loss. Our hearts go out to you and your family. We want you to know that you are in our thought and we wish you comfort and peace as you remember your family. GOD BLESS
Marty M. Speakes (Father: Alvin Penn Speakes)
Melissa F. Speakes(Father: Fay Kenny Speakes)
There are so few comforting words when we need them most. My heart aches for you and your family during this time. God bless Jamie and Ashley during this time.
May God bless and comfort you. Your mother was a friend of my mother, Margaret Echols. They are both singing in the heavenly choir now. Your Mother was a beautiful soul.
William & Loueva Carr
Dear Jamie and Ashley, your Mom was a special lady that we grew to love and respect. May her presence with the lord offer the peace so deserving. Our prayers and blessings are with all of you❤️
Jamie and Ashle, I remember your mother, she was a sweetheart and loved the Lord. I am sorry to hear of her passing. You are in my prayers.