Joyce Marie Oliver

Joyce Marie Oliver (known as Geech to her family) was born January 2, 1949, in Independence, Louisiana to Illinois, Sr. and Elsie Sam. From this union, five children were conceived, she was number four. As a child she had love for music, singing and dancing. Joyce joined St. John Missionary Baptist Church, where she was re-baptized and served as a faithful member. Joyce had a strong faith in love for Jesus Christ; she served as a member on the senior Usher board.

Joyce attended Greenville Park high school in Hammond, Louisiana, where she graduated in 1967. She attended nursing school in New Orleans, Louisiana and Southeastern University in Hammond, Louisiana. In 1970, she relocated to Indianapolis to join her older siblings. She later met and married Tommie Oliver, Jr., in 1976. They had two children, daughter, Tracy K. Oliver and son, Keith L. Oliver. Joyce worked in healthcare for many years. From General Hospital (Eskenazi), Methodist Hospital, and later retiring from St. Vincent Hospital in 2012. Two years after retiring she worked for MSD of Washington Township schools and childcare. She enjoyed watching her Indiana Pacers, going out to eat and listening to her 60s R&B music. She stated that being a teenager of the 60s was a beautiful time because there was still love in the world. Most importantly, never wanted to hurt anyone’s feelings.

Joyce leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Tracy K. Oliver; son, Keith L. Oliver; five grandchildren: Reagan M. Oliver-Snow, Kennedy L. Oliver, Landon L. Oliver, McKinley E. Oliver and Jordan K. Oliver; brothers, Martin, Sr. and Mose Sam (Dina); sister, Mary L. Walls; sister-in-law, Carolyn Sam; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and church family.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Illinois, Sr. and Elsie Sam; brother, Illinois Sam, Jr.; nephew, Marlon E. Sam, Sr.; niece, Serita N. Thompson; sister-in-law, Martha A. Sam; brother-in-law, Bobby C. Walls; and great-nephew, Devon L. McCulley.