Joyce Mills Thomas

THOMAS, Joyce Ann Mills, 78, is at peace with the Lord after passing away on Wednesday, April 25, 2018.
She was born to longtime Richmond residents, Theodore R. and Bessie Harris Mills on June 4, 1939. Joyce lived her first 75 years in the Richmond, Virginia area. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother, who always put the needs of her family ahead of her own.
After meeting her husband, Neil B. Thomas, Sr., they enjoyed a 45-year marriage and raised a son, Dr. Neil B. Thomas, Jr. A member of the US Air Force, Neil Jr. used most of his leave to visit his parents and Joyce always explained that she "lived for his visits." Joyce was also dedicated to her church, spending years as a Sunday school teacher, and an advocate for young children, who were always drawn to her. In 2015, Joyce decided to move to Colorado to be closer to Neil Jr.'s family, which gave her the opportunity to develop a special bond with her granddaughter, Savannah.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, David Mills; and her husband. She is survived by her son, Neil Jr., his wife, Carolynne; granddaughter, Savannah; brother, James Mills of New Pine Creek, Oregon; and her brother-in-law's family: Ben and Donna Thomas and Misty, Jonathan, Kayla, Emma, and Ella Terry of Powhatan, Virginia; as well as the countless neighborhood children she helped to raise. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, April 30, 2018 at the Chester chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. A graveside service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Maury Cemetery, Richmond, VA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be donated to Bellwood Baptist Church, 9138 Quinnford Blvd. N. Chesterfield, VA 23237. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com . Guests are encouraged to bring family photos or those of Joyce in celebration of her life and history. Those who are unable to attend are invited to contact Jim Mills at (503) 801-6173 at their leisure.