Joyce Barbee's Obituary
On January 16, 2024, Mrs. Joyce Helen Wilson Barbee, 80, gained
her wings and peacefully transitioned from this earth to be in the
hands of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was one of nine
children reared by the late Robert and Marcella Wilson.
Joyce attended Brinkley High School and was an active member of
Brown Chapel.
In 1960, Joyce married Thurman Gregory and to this union three
children were born. After moving to East St. Louis, Joyce had another
child.
Joyce wanted a better life for her and her four children so she decided
to get her G.E.D. and soon after, Joyce was hired at Ford Motor Company
- St. Louis Plant. She was employed there from 1976 until 2006,
when she retired.
Joyce met the love of her life, Willie Frank Barbee, Sr. They were married
on June 17, 1991 and together they raised their grandson, Aaron.
Joyce was an active member of the Red Hats Society for many years.
She loved traveling, watching football and tennis.
Preceding Joyce in death are her husband, Willie Frank Barbee, Sr.;
her son, Thurman Gregory, Jr.; her grandson, Aaron Derrick Gregory; her
sisters ~ Barbara Bondon and Sheila Marie Wilson; her brothers, Ronald
Bondon, Donald Wilson and Carl Thomas; and her father, Henry Thomas.
Joyce is survived by: her children ~ Ronald D. Gregory (Carla), Linda
Gregory and Rodrick Gregory (Drea); siblings ~ Robert Wilson (Peggy),
Norma Vance (Joe), Rebecca Lockhart, Clarence Wilson, Karen Simmons and Karla Thomas; grandchildren ~ Tiffany Gregory, Jeremy
Lockett, Ra’Isa Bakari and Asanti Gregory; great grandchildren ~
Stefon Gardner, Serenity Gardner, Christian Lockett and Ezra Lockett;
and a host of other family members and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Joyce?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joyce?
Share a story where Joyce's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joyce you’ll never forget.
How did Joyce make you smile?