Joyce Simmons Patterson was born May 13, 1942 to Henry and Ruby James.
Her Christian affiliation began with the Church of the Living God. Joyce spent her childhood in Texarkana, Arkansas.
Her education began at Orr Elementary School in Texarkana, she later attended College Hill Middle School. She received her high school diploma from Booker T. Washington, Texarkana, Arkansas. After graduation from high school, she went on to pursue her graduate studies at the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where she received her B.S. degree in English. She received her Masters degree from Chicago State University in Guidance Counseling.
She was united in matrimony to Tyree Simmons and to their union two children were born. She later united to Grover Patterson, who preceded her in death.
She was employed in the Chicago Public School for 35 years. After retiring, she moved to Hope, Arkansas. After visiting several churches, she became a member of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, under the pastorate of Rev. J. Wayne Rogers.
Mrs. Patterson served as a faithful member at Bethel, serving as a choir member, Missionary, Beautification Committee. She loved assisting her pastor and church members in whatever capacity she was needed.
She loved shopping and was known to all who knew her as a “Diva” who loved her fashions.
She leaves loving memories with: Daughter, Micheline Simmons of Dolton, Illinois; Son, Maurice Simmons (Sharon) of Chicago, Illinois; stepson, Torrey Patterson of Melbourne, Florida; three grandchildren, Matthew Simmons, Courtney Simmons, Blake Simmons; two sisters, Queen Esther Smith of Las Vegas, Nevada and Lee Esther Johnson of Wylie, Texas; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters and three brothers.
Visitation will be 11am-4pm and family hour 4-5pm Monday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 1pm Tuesday, June 30 at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Hope. Interment will be at Fair Haven Cemetery, Texarkana, Arkansas. Arrangements entrusted to Hicks Funeral Home, Inc.