Joyce Marie Thomas

Joyce was born on June 7, 1937 to the late Avie Sr., & Cecilia Pitre Thomas. She attended James Stephen High School. She was baptized at an early age at St. John Missionary Baptist church, where she met the love of her life. She married her soul-mate Raymond Thomas Sr., and moved to Lake Charles. From this union was the blessing of 4 children; Denise (Marcus) Boutte, Raymond Thomas Jr., Craig Thomas Sr. and the late Gregory Thomas. She also proudly raised 6 grandchildren; Damon Harmon, Jessie T. (Chris) Chavis, Ashley Boutte, Alex Boutte, Jadawn Henry, and Craig Henry, and 9 great- grandchildren; Diamons, Brionna, Damon, Chrislynn, Jamonte, Javione, Justice, Ryder and Reign. In addition to her husband, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren she is also survived by 3 brothers, Leon Thomas, Kerney (Ella) Thomas and Avie (Joyce) Thomas; 2 sisters, Juanita (Roger) Gibson and Cecile (Clarence) Morgan; and a host of nieces and nephews. She also preceded in death by a brother, Joshua Thomas and a sister, Bonita Favorite.

Upon moving to Lake Charles, LA in 1956, she united with Mount Calvary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Allison. She later united with the LivingWay Pentecostal Church where she was an active member for over 30 yrs. She worked for Calcasieu Parish School Board where she retired after 30 + years of faithful service to the students she loved so dearly. She devoted her life to her children and grandchildren. She loved all children and being able to raise them to be such amazing individuals made her sparkle like a diamond. Her true joy was her family; each and every one of them will cherish her memory and always carry her with them.

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 5th, 2016 from 9am-11am at LivingWay Pentecostal Church 1617 E. McNeese Street, Lake Charles LA. 70607 with funeral services at 11am, officiated by Rev. Glen Massey. Her services were entrusted to Hixson Funeral Home of Lake Charles. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com.