Joyce Williams Obituary

Joyce Louise Williams was born on February 18, 1935, in Williamson (Cinderella), West Virginia, to the late McKinley and Estella Williams. She peacefully departed this life on May 27, 2025, following a long illness.

A gifted student, Joyce graduated valedictorian of the Williamson High School Class of 1953. Shortly after, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she dedicated her career to public service at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services until her retirement.

Joyce accepted Jesus Christ at an early age. Upon moving to Washington, D.C., she joined Mt. Horeb Baptist Church, where she was a faithful member for over 50 years. Her life reflected unwavering dedication and service. Joyce taught Sunday School, represented Mt. Horeb as a Delegate at local and national Sunday School conventions, and served on numerous boards and committees-including Finance, Budget, and Pastor Search Committees. She played a key role in the rewriting of the church constitution as a member of the Constitution Committee.

In 1978, Joyce was elected to the Trustee Board and went on to serve as Chair, a position she held with distinction until her resignation on December 31, 2014. Her leadership extended beyond the church as she built lasting relationships with financial institutions, D.C. Council Members, ANC Commissioners, Civic Associations, and local businesses-including the D.C. Costco. She was also a devoted member of the United Women of Mount Horeb.

Recognized for her commitment, Joyce was appointed Volunteer Administrative Assistant by the Official Board, managing the church's administrative tasks with excellence three days a week for many years-without compensation. In 2015, she was named Emeritus Trustee and continued to provide guidance and support after transferring her membership to Village Baptist Church, where she remained active as a tithing member and participant in the Women's Bible Group.

Joyce lived a life rooted in faith, grace, and service, exemplifying the words of Matthew 25:23: "Well done, good and faithful servant."

She was preceded in death by six brothers and five sisters. Joyce is survived by her loving sister, Emma Jean Stewart; her devoted Godsons, Dr. Michael K. Jefferson and George E. Scott III ("Geo"); brother-in-law, Alfred Dooley; and a host of adoring nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews.

She also leaves behind cherished friends: Elaine Sterling, Willie Cooper, Cornelia Vaughn, Eric LaPointe, Horacestine Miller, Billy Webb, and Karen Wyatt.

Joyce's life of love, service, and integrity will continue to inspire all who knew her.

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