Joyce Elaine Washington Reed was born on August 11, 1949 to Sarah and Rock Washington. Joyce graduated from Hamilton High School and went on to become a proud 1971 graduate of Tennessee State University, with a major in Sociology. Joyce retired after a 30+ year career with the Tennessee Department of Labor as an eligibility counselor.

Joyce married William Reed in February of 1975. The couple would later have their son, Stephen Reed, in 1977. Joyce was a lifetime member of Pillow Street CME Church where she enjoyed singing in the choir and serving as a steward. Throughout life, Joyce loved a wide variety of music genres, and enjoyed singing in her home church at Pillow Street CME.

She leaves a legacy of love with William Reed and her son, Stephen Reed. Also left to cherish her memory are George and Wanda Jones III, Ann Jones, Kim Arney (Sam), George Jones IV (Malissa), Geoffrey Jones (Danielle) and Noelle Blair, a host of other cousins, and the many friends from work and church. She and family were especially thankful for the kindness and generosity of her neighbor, Michael Jackson, who would always offer to help whenever needed.

The family will receive friends for a memorial service Saturday, August 6, 2025 at Pillow Street CME 1590 Pillow St, Memphis, TN 38106