Joyce Helen McWhorter

Joyce was born on August 23, 1946, in Phoenix, Arizona. She was the 2nd of 5 children born to the late Johnnie Dale Lewis, Sr. and Ruth Juanita (Wood) Lewis. Joyce’s fierce will and determination was cultivated in childhood as she overcame legal blindness. She graduated from West High School in Phoenix on June 4th, 1965, where she received an award for a soprano solo she performed. She married Duane McWhorter on October 11, 1966, and soon they started their family. While raising their three daughters she began a productive and successful career of the City of Phoenix in 1981. She was employed for twenty-five years working her way up from typist I to Customer Service Clerk/Plans.

Before her retirement she was Baptized again, reaffirming her faith in 1987. Joyce was a dedicated member for many years at The Jesus Church in Phoenix. She planted the seeds of faith in the lives of her daughters when they were younger. As her life took her down many paths her thirst for knowledge and truth increased. She eventually graduated from a local Bible College. She enjoyed word searches, journaling, reading scripture, singing her favorite hymns, chasing waterfalls, going out to eat with friends and family and talking on the phone with her grandkids. She was a constant giver to the church and preacher of God and to the Lord Jesus Christ who she would proudly say is our, Saviour. She also loved her country and its history supporting all American owned businesses. She always did her best to spread the Word with grace, joy and with her laughter. Wherever she went she always had a hug for someone. She will be remembered for being unique and her corky sense of humor, stubbornness, faithfulness, and devotion to family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her eldest sister, Joy; brothers, Bobby and Johnnie Dale, Jr.; former husband, Duane McWhorter; and grandson, Daniel Flight.

She leaves in the hands of Jesus her cherished daughters, Carolyn S. Evans (Greg) and Carolyn's children, Caren Turner(Will), Keith Evans(Kat), Crystal Evans and Ann Evans; Diana J. Lenz(Dan) and Diana’s children, Troy Grimes(Shelbie) and Coleen; and Victoria J. Evans (Tom) and Victoria’s children, Lora Cole(Criss) and Savannah Blessing (Bill); 23 great-grandchildren and counting; two step-daughters, Cindy Niebergall and Sherri Goforth; her sister, Judy Andersen and all her adopted kids through Christ and her endless giving heart.

Memorial contributions can be made in her name to the Hendrick Hospice Care 1651 Pine St, Abilene, TX 79601 or call (325) 670-2273.

Services celebrating her life will be held at a later date at Abilene Baptist Church for Abilene friends and family. A Phoenix Celebration will be held at The Jesus Church in Phoenix please visit back for dates and times.