Elma Joyce Durham

Elma Joyce was born on December 7, 1936 to Lee Fletcher and Vera Ringo in Houston, TX. She graduated high school from Phyllis Wheatley. She had 5 sisters and one brother Vera, Barbara, Carolyn, Annie, Margaret and Freddie. Later, she married Andrew Lee Evans whom preceded her in death, She later married Thomas A. Durham whom preceded her in death. She had nine children, seven girls and two boys, Carolyn Elaine (preceded Her in death),Gloria Jean (preceded her in death), Jacqueline Annette (preceded her in death), Andriola Yvonne (preceded her in death), And Verna Louise (preceded her in death), Sharon Lynn, Cheryl Ann, Earl James and Ronald Louis.

Joyce grew up in Sixth Ward and later moved to Sunnyside in 1972 where she currently lived at the time of her death. Once she moved to Sunnyside, she became a member of Pentecostal Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev W.h. Burks and now under the leadership of Rev Acie Jefferson. Joyce was a dedicated and faithful member even when she became bedridden she would watch worship service online. She loved singing and listening to gospel music, reading her bible and talking to people about how God brought her through so much and her faith in God.

She was very outspoken, but a kind woman. She would tell you exactly how she felt in modesty and with respect. Joyce was a very strong woman who kept fighting and fighting until the end. She never gave up until God decided she’s been through enough and called her home. Her Children and Grandchildren accepted God’s decision, because we know God makes no mistakes. She will be deeply missed by her children, Grandchildren, Family and Friends.

A visitation for Elma will be held Saturday, January 22, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Pentecostal M.B.C., 8310 Southview Street, Houston, TX 77051. A funeral service will occur Saturday, January 22, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 8310 Southview Street, Houston, TX 77051. A committal service will occur Tuesday, January 25, 2022 from 10:30 AM to 10:45 AM at Houston National Cemetery, 10401 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.