Tributes

Joyce Arlene (Hall) Parker, daughter of James N. Hall and Lueva (Hilliard) Hall, was born on March 28, 1944, in Philadelphia, PA. The second of two daughters, she shared a lifelong bond with her older sister Janice. She attended Philadelphia public schools and graduated from Overbrook High School in 1962. Joyce began her professional life as an executive assistant at GlaxoSmithKline (formerly SmithKline Beecham), supporting the early years of her and Leroy’s relationship and marriage. She worked full‑time while Leroy completed night school at Drexel — a testament to her unwavering commitment to their shared future. After the birth of her daughters, Joyce embraced the role of full-time mother, a role that brought her immense joy. She loved volunteering in their schools, from first grade through high school graduation. Joyce was a familiar and caring presence throughout the school, not only for Aisha and Shani but also becoming a loving support system for many of their friends as well. She loved doing her crossword puzzles, watching her soaps and bowling, until rheumatoid arthritis forced her to step back. Joyce found creative fulfillment in the Civic Black Theater in Kalamazoo, MI, where she proudly performed as one of the leading ladies in the play Steal Away. Wherever she lived, Joyce built deep and lasting friendships, keeping in touch through letters, Christmas cards, and occasional calls. Though not a long‑talker on the phone (except with her sister), when she reconnected with old friends, it was as if no time had passed at all. Joyce loved movies—especially black‑and‑white classics her daughters called “old timey.” She never tired of watching films she loved, including Casablanca, Gone with the Wind, and The Godfather I and II (she didn’t care for Part III). She shared her love of cinema with her daughters, creating treasured moments of laughter, tears, suspense, and the occasional jump at a good scare in a horror film. She prayed quietly, spoke her mind, and lived with purpose. As an Aries, the fire within her was evident—fiercely protective, loving, witty, and deeply loyal. Her humor was sharp, her parenting practical and sometimes delightfully sarcastic, and her heart wide open to those in her trusted circle. She laughed loudly, loved softly, and worshipped privately. She will be remembered for her strength, her loyalty, and her deep love for Leroy, who was truly her whole world.

Tributes

Joyce A. Parker

March 28, 1944 - February 25, 2026