Joyce Ann Alexander

Joyce Ann Alexander was born on August 6, 1958, to Jetson and Johnnie Mae Alexander in Benton Harbor, MI. She transitioned from her earthly existence on November 4, 2021, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo, MI.

Joyce was the sixth of 10 children, and the first daughter born after five sons. Her arrival was warmly anticipated and welcomed, a precious addition in the entire family’s eyes. Joyce moved from Benton Harbor to Kalamazoo, MI in the late ‘80s to further her life adventure and career path. With a strong work ethic and continuous work history, Joyce’s final employment spanned more than 27 years at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI where she was employed as an Accounts Payable/Payroll and Disbursements Financial Assistant before retiring in 2016. 

Joyce gave unconditional love to her only child, Lynnyell, and her five grandchildren. She reared them with so much love and ‘Old School’ guidance, leaning heavily on respect and highlighting “Joyce’s Way”.

Fun-loving and compassionate, Joyce really knew how to have a good time and make others comfortable to join in. Joyce was a charitable woman, especially with her family and friends, giving all that she could, when she could. She was a leader and found joy in teaching many fundamental skills to her family, especially her sisters. Even at a young age, when Joyce learned a craft, she quickly attempted to share that knowledge, including how to braid hair, knit, and sew. She wanted those close to her to know the same as she did.

Joyce leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter Lynnyell Alexander, grandchildren Aliya Alexander-May of Norfolk VA,  Mariah Alexander, Kayla Alexander, Elijah Alexander, and Chaveala Crespo, all of Kalamazoo, MI., brothers, Jetson(Esterlean) Alexander of Fort Wayne, IN, Jerry David Alexander of Kalamazoo, MI, Jeffrey(NaTesa) Alexander of Las Vegas, NV; sisters, Janice(Ronald) Evans of Kalamazoo, MI, Joanne Alexander of St George, UT, and Jacqueline Alexander of Grand Rapids, MI. Best Sister friend, Margaret Collier, Special friend, Tyrone Hudson and close friends, Pam Mottley, Karyn Mottley, Leonard Thomas, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers, Jesse, Johnny, and Joseph.

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