Thelma "Joyce" Whitley

Thelma “Joyce” Whitley passed away Monday, January 26, 2021 after a courageous 6 year battle with cancer.  She was born on August 27, 1943 in Tennessee to the late Willie and Katie (Bolton) Anderson. Joyce graduated from Marion College in 1989 with a RN degree while raising 2 young girls.  She spent 25 years working at St. Francis as a nurse and loved her job of helping and taking care of others. Her passion was people and she spent her life serving others.  She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, kindness and generosity.  She was a devoted mother and grandmother, always wanting the best for all.  She loved her flowers, music, decorating, shopping and her cat named Baby.  She was a member of Mount Auburn Methodist Church in Greenwood. She is survived by her children:  Terry Whitley (Julie), Debbie Ficklin (Ron) , Susan Lee and Chris Whitley; grandchildren: Amy Sheller (Adam), Josh Lee, Phillip Simcox, Sarah Simcox: 6 great-grandchildren,  sisters: Millie Kaat, Laverne Buckner (Bill), sister-in-law/dear friend Bea Anderson and special companion, Phil Tinkle She is preceded by her husband, Joe Whitley and several siblings:  Louise, Johnny, James, Dee, J.D, Joseph and Leonard. A service may be livestreamed at 1PM on February 1, 2021 at the following link: https://youtu.be/nBTmMqMRVvQ Joyce will be laid to rest in Washington Park East Cemetery. All services are entrusted to Flanner Buchanan—Washington Park East.  The family wants to express our deepest gratitude for the 2 ladies who selflessly gave of their time to care for Joyce during the last few weeks.  Vicky Mcilveen and Joyce’s niece, Ramona Wix showered Joyce with love, patience, kindness and gentleness, allowing her to be at home with family, friends and her kitty in a time where isolation is such a sad way to spend your last days.  Sabrina Young also visited and helped every day to ensure Joyce was happy and never alone.