Joyce Annette Kelley

Mrs. Joyce Annette Kelley, 82, of Johnson City, cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, completed her life's journey, surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, July 30th, at her home, following a lengthy illness.

Joyce was born in Elizabethton, TN, to the late Clyde Bowers and Mossie Nave-Bowers, on July 4, 1943 and spent her childhood in the Blue Springs community of Carter County. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carl Murphy Kelley, Sr.; and three much loved stepsons, Carl Kelley, Jr., Edward Kelley, and Ronald Kelley, Sr.

She was a graduate of Unaka High School, a retiree of Baxter-Pharmaseal in Johnson City, and a member of Sinking Creek Baptist Church. As a previous member of University Parkway Baptist Church in the 1970's and 1980's, she touched the lives of hundreds of children in Johnson City as the Director of Bus Ministry. Every child she met during her years of bus ministry, always held a special place in her heart. Joyce was known for her acceptance of others and unconditional love that she showered on everyone she knew. She lived a selfless life in service of others.

Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Joy Kelley; grandchildren, Michael Miller, Nicholas (Lindsey) Mills, and Dreama Barnett; great-grandchildren, Tabitha Miller, Jennifer Mills, Jakob Mills, Nova Mills, and Lukas Mills; brother, Darrell (Francis) Bowers; Step-grandchildren, Carl (Cindy) Kelley, III, Ronald Kelley, Jr., and Mack Kelley; nephews David (Brooke) Bowers and Jerry (Michele) Bowers; special life-long friends Sue Lowe and Virginia White; and friend and neighbor Brenda King.

The family would like to express their utmost appreciation to the employees at Amedisys Hospice for their excellent care.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joyce's name to Restore Life, Elizabethton, TN.

The family will have a reception at Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN, from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Saturday August 9, 2025 with a memorial service to follow at 2:00 PM. The service will be officiated by Dr. Ruth Taylor Read.

Memories and condolences may be shared via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Kelley family. (423) 282-1521