Joyce S. Massey passed away peacefully at her residence on May 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born the cherished daughter of Ralph N. Sanders and India Durden Sanders, Joyce was one of eight siblings in a close-knit and spirited family. Her life was marked by deep devotion to those she loved, and her presence was a source of warmth, laughter, and unwavering support.
Joyce’s greatest joy came from her role as “Nana.” Whether she was roller skating, scootering, or off on some new adventure, she embraced every moment with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was the kind of grandmother who didn’t just watch from the sidelines—she joined in the fun, her laughter echoing through every family gathering. Her family will carry with them countless sweet and joyful memories of a Nana who made life exciting and love abundant.
She dedicated her professional life to a fulfilling and impactful career as a dental assistant, always bringing care and attentiveness to those she served. A faithful member of Parks City Baptist Church in Fayetteville, TN, Joyce found strength and community in her faith, attending services, and participating in church life with steadfast devotion.
An avid reader, Joyce loved to lose herself in a good romance novel and spent many peaceful hours tending to her beloved flower garden. Nature and storytelling were her quiet joys, reflective of her gentle spirit and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
In recent years, Joyce was lovingly accompanied by her poodle, Katie, a special gift from her granddaughter. Katie was more than a pet—she was a treasured companion who brought comfort and joy in Joyce’s later years.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and family her devoted daughter: Vicki Massey; daughter-in-law: Susan Massey; grandchildren, Steven (Amanda) Massey of Lenoir, NC, and Melissa (David) Good of Fayetteville, TN; and her great-grandchildren, J.J. McGee, Jude Massey, D.C. Good, Eli Dunn, Lyrik Massey, Gracie Good, and Angel Pool. She is also survived by her dear sister, Jackie Dale, and her close friend, Sherry Blocker.
Joyce is reunited in peace with her beloved husband of 59 years: Larry G. Massey; children, Steve Massey and Beth Massey; her siblings, Audrey Payne, Doris Jester, Jeri Hill, Billie Jean Harmon, Wilburn Sanders, Roy Sanders, and Ralph N. Sanders, Jr.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Tricia Williams and Terri Rodgers, whose unwavering compassion and care brought great comfort to Joyce in her final days. Special thanks also to Gentiva Hospice for their gentle and attentive support.
A graveside service for Joyce will be held at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbia, TN.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to two causes dear to Joyce’s heart: St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and Parks City Baptist Church in Fayetteville, TN.
Joyce S. Massey’s love, laughter, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.
This obituary was published by Williams Funeral Home & Crematory.
Obituaries provided free for the community.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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