Joyce Marie McKenzie

Obituary for Ms. Joyce Marie McKenzie (1949 – 2025)

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joyce Marie McKenzie, a remarkable woman whose strength, love, and unwavering dedication shaped the lives of all who knew her. She departed from this world on March 16, 2025, at 11:00 p.m., leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, compassion, and boundless devotion.

Born on September 3, 1949, in Centerville, Texas, to parents Gus David Lusk, Sr. and Pearlie Mae Lusk, Joyce grew up the middle child with two brothers who has proceeded her in death, Barret Lusk and Gus David Lusk Jr. She graduated from Kashmere High School in Houston, Texas, where she was Homecoming Queen and a proud Majorette with the renowned Kashmere Stage Band under the leadership of the legendary Conrad Johnson. The band became known as Texas Thunder Soul, gaining national recognition whose work later became a movie and a featured documentary. The legacy and style of this band is still seen today a many HBCU, and high school half time shows that bring fans to their feet. Her time with the band remained a cherished chapter of her life, and she maintained lifelong friendships with many of her classmates. She went on to attend Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, where she majored in English. Her love for language and communication was evident throughout her life, whether through her eloquent way with words or the wisdom she shared with those around her.

Losing her mother at the early age of twenty-eight, Joyce worked hard to be the best mother, sister, and daughter to her surviving father. After her divorce, she successfully raised two children on her own. She later met her life partner of 40-plus years, Robert (Raymond) Alexander, who was by her side until her final days.

In addition to being a devoted mother and life partner, Joyce built a remarkable 42-year career at AT&T. She served in leadership, guiding her team with integrity, compassion, and an unyielding work ethic. She was known for her laughter, strong leadership, dedication to her company, and her amazing cooking that would motivate her team to achieve their revenue targets.

Joyce greatest pride, however, was watching her children grow into compassionate, accomplished individuals. She beamed with joy to her daughter fulfilling four degrees and one class away from completing her Doctorate degree graduating with honors and son completing over twenty years on his job—a reflection of her own nurturing spirit and the values she instilled.

She is survived by her two cherished children, Tylenthia Porter, and Omattaa McKenzie, three grandchildren; Tyeshia Mitchell, Toddrick Porter (Abby), Xavien Vargas; four great-grandchildren, Amara Mitchell, Elijah Stroughter III, King Stroughter, and Ethan Stroughter; niece and nephew, Dwayne Lusk and Shawn Denton (Charles) who will carry forward her legacy of kindness and dedication. She will also be dearly missed by her sister-laws; Barbara Lusk and Vesta Marie Lusk and a host of cousins, extended family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her.

A service to honor and celebrate Joyce’s life will be held on April 5, 2025, at The Luke Church 2380 S Houston Ave, Humble, Texas, 77396, with visitation from 10 a.m-11:00 am and service starting 11:00 a.m. Please send flowers to Paradise Funeral Home 10401 W, Montgomery Rd, Houston, Texas 77088.

Her memory will forever remain in our hearts testament to a life beautifully lived and a love that will never fade.