Joyce M. Bride's Obituary
Joyce Marie Bride, age 69, went home to glory on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 in Mishawaka, IN. She was born on January 11, 1952 to Johnny Reese and Pearlie Mae (Washington) Merriweather in Ethelsville, AL. Joyce received her bachelor’s degree from Baker college. She worked for the State of Michigan as a correctional officer, retiring as a Sergeant. After retirement she was a substitute teacher, but her calling was being a foster mother to teenage girls. Joyce helped instill strong values and morals in those around her. She helped in any way she could for those with barriers to overcome. Joyce always had a kind word with lots of humor and sound council. Her favorite past times were her grandchildren, putting together a great outfit, gardening, and reading her bible. Joyce was a faithful servant of God and had a strong love for the Lord. She was a member of her family’s church New Mt. Zion Baptist Church for several years. Joyce will be remembered by her daughters, Kimberly (Tyrie) Johnson and Pearlette Merriweather; bonus daughter, Precious Bell; grandchildren, Brandon (Renee) Merriweather, Arielle Edwards and Racquel Edwards; great-grandchildren, Lindsey Reeves, Canari Reeves, Maliyah Merriweather, Aubrey Anderson, and Adriel Anderson; sisters, Regina Young and Sarah Ann Buchannan; and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Johnny Ray Merriweather. A Funeral Service will be held 11:00AM, Tuesday, May 25 at Mt. Zion Church of God (188 W. Muskegon Ave., 49440) with Elder Duane Bennett officiating. Visitation with the family will be held Monday, May 24 from 5-7PM at The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. Burial to take place at Oakwood Cemetery. Please feel free to share a memory with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Joyce?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joyce?
Share a story where Joyce's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joyce you’ll never forget.
How did Joyce make you smile?
