In Loving Memory of Joyce Bowles Hicks

In Loving Memory of Joyce Bowles Hicks
September 23, 1931 – July 28, 2025
Forest, Virginia

With deep sadness and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the peaceful passing of Joyce Bowles Hicks, age 93, of Forest, Virginia, on Monday, July 28, 2025. Joyce was born on September 23, 1931, in Bedford County, Virginia, a region she loved and remained closely connected to throughout her life. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend—a woman whose life was defined by faith, grace, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Joyce grew up with strong family values and a love for the land and community that surrounded her. Her early years in Bedford County shaped her gentle character and cultivated the strength, resilience, and kindness that would go on to define her. She was a graduate of Bedford High School, where she formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. From a young age, Joyce displayed a nurturing spirit, a quiet wisdom, and a deep commitment to her faith.

Joyce married the love of her life and best friend, and together they built a warm and welcoming home in Forest, Virginia. A dedicated homemaker, she raised her children with compassion, patience, and a deep sense of right and wrong. Her family was her world, and nothing brought her more joy than gathering loved ones around the table for home-cooked meals, thoughtful conversation, and heartfelt laughter.

She was a long-standing member of her local church, where she was involved in the women’s ministry, choir, and countless volunteer efforts over the years. Her faith in God guided her every step and served as a pillar of strength for her family and friends.

Those who knew Joyce will remember her for her gracious spirit, gentle smile, and the quiet but powerful way she cared for everyone around her. Whether through a handwritten card, a warm embrace, or a kind word, she had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, valued, and loved. She took joy in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, baking, quilting, and watching the birds outside her kitchen window.

Joyce’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched. She leaves behind a loving family who will forever carry her memory in their hearts: her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends. While our hearts are heavy with grief, we are also filled with gratitude for the time we had with her and the example she set.

Her family wishes to thank all those who supported and visited Joyce during her final days, especially the caregivers and hospice staff who treated her with such dignity and kindness.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Funeral services will be held at [Funeral Home/Church Name], with visitation and burial details to follow.

Though she is no longer with us in the physical world, Joyce Bowles Hicks’ legacy of love, strength, and grace will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

May she rest in peace and rise in glory.