Joyce Coats

Joyce Coats, 72, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 15, 2026. While our hearts are heavy, we rejoice knowing she has finally met Jesus face-to-face—a moment she anticipated with great excitement and a certain, unwavering faith.

A Life Defined by Faith and Family

For Joyce, life was defined by a clear hierarchy of love: Jesus first, followed closely by her role as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. A faithful member of her church, Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. Joyce’s greatest mission was teaching her children and grandchildren about the gospel. She was a woman of profound prayer; if there was ever a need she couldn't physically meet, she met it on her knees. Her family was constantly covered by her intercession.

"Momma Joyce" to Many

Joyce’s heart for children extended far beyond her own biological family. She helped raise several children alongside her own, and many of those now-grown adults still affectionately call her "Momma Joyce." To know her was to be cared for by her.Her Joys and Passions

When she wasn't spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren to the fullest, Joyce could likely be found shopping—her favorite pastime in the world. she loved to travel, cherished her monthly outings with her cousins, and found deep joy in old gospel music, and loved singing with her daughter.

Family Legacy

Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Forrest Coats; her children, Shad Coats and wife Alicia of Whitehouse, and Krissi Perryman of Whitehouse. She also leaves behind her brother, Randy McCoy; brother-in-law, Danny Jones; 2 grandchildren, Mason Coats (Haley) & Justin Coats (Kaleigh) of Whitehouse, 8 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, close friends who were truly family to her.

She has been joyfully reunited in Heaven with her parents, Billy Gene and Louise Hamilton McCoy; her sister, Brenda McCoy Jones; and her grandparents, John and Estelle Hamilton.

Join us as we celebrate her Life & Legacy. Visitation will be held Friday, March 21, 2026 from 5pm-7pm at Lloyd James Funeral Home.

Joyce's homegoing service will be held Saturday, March 22, 2026 at 10am in Lloyd James Funeral Home Chapel. Joyce will be laid to rest at the Whitehouse Cemetery.