Page 11 - Senior Link Magazine Winter 2021- Online Magazine

LOCAL LEGENDS

family member in an individual and unique
way as she did with her students. She often
collects things during the year that remind
her of someone in the family or a friend of
hers whom she thinks will be encouraged by
the personal meaning behind the gift. One
of her special friends is Shelly who does her
hair twice a week. They have a special bond,
and Shelly is one of the sweetest people on
earth. Many friends from First Baptist Church
Lubbock still enjoy spending time with Joyce.
She and Jr. taught Sunday School in the high
school and college ministry for over 50 years.
Her smile and ability to connect with students
served the church well throughout those years.

Joyce believes in the power of prayer and often
lifts people up through her care and concern. She
goes the extra step of praying God’s best protection
and provision of love for them. Her voice carries
emotion and intensity for whomever she is praying.
Some of the most meaningful moments of family
meals are when we hear her pray for “this time
we have to be together.” She inspires others to
know God in a personal and intimate way. As a
role model and leader, she has many followers and
admirers. As the founding sponsor of the spirit
organization “High Riders” at Tech, she inspired
many people to care about and support women’s
athletics. Like her father, in his role as principal, she
functioned as part social worker, counselor, medical
advisor, and friend. High Rider alums still come
by to visit her and celebrate the beautiful life she
continues to share with them.
She passed on her teaching skills, her love for Jr.
and their family, and her investment in the church,
and she continues to pass on her genuine faith
to anyone who will listen and learn. If you know
Joyce, I am sure the parting words from her would
be, “Don’t forget that I love you!”

Lubbock Senior Link 11