Joyce Ann Cox entered this world on January 24, 1961, in Columbus, MS to Willie James and Lizzie Cox. She was raised on the northside of Columbus and attended the Columbus City Schools. She would complete her high school education in 1980 at S.D. Lee High School. She began her employment with Columbus City School District as a cook serving at various schools for 37 years until retirement. Joyce accepted Christ as her personal savior at Mt. Zion M.B. Church and later moved her membership to United Christian M.B. Church where she remained a faithful member.

Joyce had a heart of gold. She was a fun-loving woman that touched so many lives. Through her love, she nurtured not only her biological children, but nieces, nephews, and many other youths. Joyce was diagnosed with breast cancer 30 years ago. Her faith and desire to fight and endure did not slow her down. Joyce Ann, known as a "Warrior", continued to spread her love and show that she was more than a conqueror.

Joyce Ann Cox transitioned on November 10, 2023, in Columbus, MS. She is preceded in death by her parents; four sisters: Nettie Butler, Mary Latham, Bessie Cox, and Tawanda Cox; her brother, Willie Cox, Jr.; her nieces, Tonda "Tronda" Cox and Rhondia Riles; and her nephew, Timothy "Timmy" Clay, Jr.

Joyce's memories will forever be cherished by:  her children, Erika Cox and Romeco Cox; her siblings, Ada (George) Irions, Sharon (Joe) Wells, Rev. James  (Maxine) Long, Delores Cunnie and Mary (Walter) Whitley; grandchildren, Tre'len Cox, Ja'Quaylin Cox, Vashawn Staples, Zoey Edmond, Jordyn Edmond, and Kamari Jackson; her four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.