Joyce Elaine Thompson West of Madison, AL was born on April 26, 1951 to Willis and Carrie Fant Thompson in Colbert County, AL. She peacefully transitioned to her eternal home on February 21st surrounded by her family. Her journey on this earth was led by love and compassion. She left a profound impact on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Joyce was raised in Barton, AL and was a faithful member of Zion #1 Missionary Baptist Church. After graduating from Cherokee Vocational High School in 1969, she attended Alabama A&M and the University of Alabama Birmingham. She spent most of her adult life in Alabama, but briefly lived in Chicago, IL, Tacoma, WA, and Atlanta, GA. She was a dedicated and exemplary civil servant with the Social Security Administration. She retired  in 2010 after over 30 years of federal service.

Joyce is lovely remembered by her husband David Washington West, son Japheth Ivan West of Woodbridge, VA, daughter Chandra West Smith of Huntsville, AL, son David D'Layne West of Madison, AL, and son Fred Daniels Jr. of Birmingham, AL. Six grandchildren, Zenina Easley, Jasmine West, Jordan Smith, Jaylynne West, Olivia Smith, and Raegan West. Seven great-grandchildren, India, Paris, London, Parker, Merritt, I'talia, and I'nacio. One great-great grandchild Harper.

Joyce is also survived by five siblings. Bettye Lorraine Fant-Thompson of Harvest, AL, Fannie Thompson of Madison, AL, Patricia Shaw of Huntsville, AL, Stephen (Mary) Thompson of Muscle Shoals , AL, and Willis (Shirley) Thompson of Muscle Shoals, AL. She had many friends and a large extended family who loved her dearly including a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her family was her greatest blessing. She will be missed by all of us!

"A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again."
-Maya Angelou

On Sunday, March 23, 2025, in Huntsville, AL, we will pay tribute to the incredible life of Joyce with a celebration of life service. Time and location will be announced. Please join us as we honor her memory and cherish the moments we shared together.

The family will have a private interment at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, AL at a later date.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Star Legacy Foundation in Joyce's honor. Star Legacy Foundation is the nation's leader in prevention and care of pregnancy loss, stillbirth, and neonatal death. They also support and provide comfort to grieving families.

The family also extends a heartfelt thanks to the caring staff of Huntsville Hospital.