Joyce Ates

A lifelong resident of Plant City, FL, Joyce was born on June 20, 1941, and graduated from Turkey Creek High School in 1958 and remained proud of her roots throughout her life.

Joyce was known for her generous spirit, sharp wit, and impeccable sense of fashion. She never missed a Strawberry Festival, proudly wearing one of her signature blingy shirts and jewelry, dancing to live local music with her husband and friends. Above all, she cherished her family deeply, and her greatest happiness came from time spent with those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Julie DeLynn Messick; parents, Harry and Nellie Crosby; brother, Harry Crosby; nephew, Tony Crosby; and great-granddaughter, Charlotte May Koerber.

She is survived by her husband, James Ates; daughter, Judy Messick Faircloth (Barry); granddaughter, Cassady Faircloth Koerber (Kyle); two great-grandchildren, Quinn and Wes; niece, Terri Crosby Barlotta (Nick); and nephews, Jimmie Crosby (Cindy) and Michael Crosby (Sue).

A celebration of life will be held at Wells Memorial and Event Center(1903 W Reynolds St,

Plant City) on Friday, August 1st. Please join us from 12pm-12:30pm for snacks and fellowship, and the service immediately after from 12:30pm-1:30pm followed by a burial at Hillsborough Memorial Gardens in Brandon, FL at 3pm. If you’d like to share a memory or funny story, please have it typed or written up to be read by a family member. In true fashion of Joyce, we invite you to wear something colorful or sparkly.

Joyce leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, laughter, and strawberries that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers we ask that you make a donation to your favorite charity.