Barbara Joyce "Joye" McGurren

Joye was born to L. Dale and Odum Jamieson on September 22, 1948. She had an older brother, E. Dale Jamieson with whom she shared a close bond. Joye and Dale spent most of their childhood in Jackson, TN, where both graduated from Jackson High School. She excelled at baton twirling, to the point where she won several competitions and earned a scholarship to Memphis State University.

After college, she married her first husband Les Biggert, and, in 1981, they had their only child, Patrick Dale Biggert, who loved his mother immensely. Les and Joye were married over 20 years but divorced in the mid 90s.

Later in life, she was lucky enough to find her true love in James A. ‘Jim’ McGurren. They spent many wonderful years together and married in 2019. Her time with Jim was the happiest of Joye’s life. They took frequent trips, attended many concerts, and dined at many wonderful restaurants. Jim knew how to spoil his wife, and she was always grateful.

Joye had a love of books, music, and movies, and when Patrick would stop in for a visit, she would always recommend something new. She had a lifelong love of flowers, and Jim made sure there was always a fresh arrangement around. Joye loved entertaining at the home she and Jim shared. Guests were always greeted with a warm smile and a story.

Joye is survived by her husband Jim; son Patrick; stepdaughters Jamie Kuhn and Gina McGurren; step-grandchildren Noah, Bridgette, and Gavin; sister-in-law Mary Treila Jamieson; niece Shannon Jamieson Izquierdo and husband Tony Izquierdo, and their children Cecilia and Cruz.

The family is hosting a visitation on Friday August 8th at Collierville Funeral Home, 3863 Bailey Station Road, Collierville from 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. with a service to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Joye’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.