Ms. Joyce Ann Barnes

Today we celebrate the life of our beloved Joyce Ann Barnes, who peacefully departed this life on June 1, 2026. She was born August 6, 1968, in Jackson, Mississippi, to the late Fannie Smith and Willie Barnes, Joyce later made Saginaw, Michigan her home, where she spent the rest of her life creating a legacy of love, compassion, and selflessness. Joyce had a heart that was made for caring for others. As a childcare provider, she dedicated her life to nurturing and protecting children, treating each child as if they were her own. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and loving embrace brought comfort to so many lives. Caring for others wasn't just her profession it was her calling. To know Joyce was to know unconditional love. She was the kind of person who always put others before herself, offering encouragement, wisdom, and a listening ear whenever it was needed. Her greatest joy in life was her family. She loved deeply, gave freely, and never missed an opportunity to make those around her feel cherished. Joyce leaves behind a family who will forever carry her love in their hearts: her devoted children, Clarissa Simmons, Elizabeth Benton, and Willie Lee Barnes; her beloved grandchildren, Alexis Neuemeyer, Leaira Benton, Marcus Neuemeyer, Anthony Neuemeyer, Tyreiona Gilmore, and Tyleeah Gilmore, who brought endless pride and joy to her life. She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings, Wanneka Barnes, Willie Barnes Jr., Charles Barnes, and Jumaela Johnson; her treasured best friend, Deborah Kelly; her nieces and great-nieces, Denitra, Deonsha (Cortez), Angel, Ashley, Keyanhi, Shatez, Lauryn, Cortney, Jenesis, and Makayla; her great-nephew, Darell, Jesse and Jayceon; and a host of other relatives and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her love. Although our hearts are broken by her absence, we find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind. We will miss her laughter, her strength, her guidance, and the way she made everyone feel loved. The lessons she taught, the love she shared, and the memories she created will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know her. Ms. Joyce Ann Barnes was also preceded in death by Jerry Harris, Fannie Smith and Willie Barnes. While we grieve the loss of her physical presence, we rejoice in knowing that her beautiful spirit is at peace. Her love remains carved into our lives and will continue to guide us each day. Funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 12, 2026 at Evans & Browne's Funeral Home, 441 N. Jefferson Ave., Saginaw, MI 48607. Pastor Michael Hayes will officiate. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Ms. Joyce Ann Barnes

August 6, 1968 - June 1, 2026