Joyce Carter Farrish, aged 82, passed away on August 31, 2024, in Memphis. Born on December 1, 1941, Joyce was a beacon of joy and love throughout her life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. Joyce graduated from Bolton High School in 1959 after being crowned Miss. Bolton. She went on to have a fulfilling career as a legal secretary before retiring as a bookkeeper from Shelby County Schools where she worked for Dogwood Elementary and Bartlett Elementary Schools. Her professional life was marked by diligence and a commitment to excellence.
A devout member of Ellendale Baptist Church, Joyce's faith was a significant aspect of her life, guiding her actions and interactions. Her love for singing was often showcased in church activities, bringing solace and joy to many. Beyond her professional and spiritual engagements, Joyce was a family-oriented person. She cherished singing and spending quality time with her loved ones, creating lasting memories that her family will cherish forever. Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, James Farrish; daughter, Kimberly Adams (Cecil); grandsons, Geoffrey and Nathan Adams; brothers, Kevin Carter (Donna) and Scott Carter (Vicky); several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond Lewis Carter and Molly Elizabeth Carter (Butler); siblings, Jeanette Huggins, Mike Carter, and Cindy Morton; and her infant son, James Earl Farrish, Jr., who also passed away on August 31st, in 1973.
Joyce will be remembered not only for her radiant smile that could light up any room but also for her boundless capacity to love. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her, and she will be dearly missed.
As I Sit In Heaven - Author Unknown
As I sit in heaven and watch you every day,
I try and let you know with signs,
I never went away.
I hear you when you're laughing,
and I watch you as you sleep,
I even place my arms around you,
to calm you as you weep.
I see you wish the days away,
Begging to have me home,
So I try and send you signs,
so you know you're not alone.
Don't feel guilty that you have life,
life that was denied to me,
Heaven is truly beautiful,
just you wait and see!
So live your life,
laugh again,
enjoy yourself,
be free then I'll know each breath you take,
you'll be taking one for me.
