Joyce A. Gilbert was born in Charleston, West Virginia on August 17, 1939 to the union of the late Mr. George Washington Banks, Sr. and Dorothy E. Oliver who later married Lee Jones.

Her education were achieved in Besoco and Harwood, West Virginia. In 1957, She graduated from Byrd Prillerman High School of Amigo, West Virginia. Joyce accepted Jesus Christ as her Personal Savior at an early age. She was a longstanding member of Gethsemane Baptist Church since 1961. She also was involved with some ministries, such as Sunday School Ministry (Teacher), Youth Ministry (Teacher), Nurse Ministry (Nurse) Mission/Outreach (Missionary) and the Music Ministry (Choir member).

Joyce followed her brother Johnny to Cleveland, where she met the late Lloyd N. Gilbert. The two got married on March 2, 1963, and it was to this union two daughters were born, Shelia Ridgeway and Vonita Gilbert. Joyce was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She touched the hearts of so many and was an affectionally referred to as “Mom”, “Ms. Granny”, and “Granny”. As a young mother, she often volunteered and served as a lunch and teacher’s aide.

Later in life, she would become a caregiver to her mother, as well as a babysitter for many children. Education was important to her. During the summer months, she would encourage children to read, conduct lessons for them to participate in, as well as take trips to the local library. Her home was always filled with love and young children. She would keep them occupied with toys and games.

With her helping spirit, she decided to further her education by becoming an STNA. She would work at McGregor Nursing Home for over 14 years of service. Even leading up to retirement, Joyce continued to work on a part time basis and continued to assist others in need.

Joyce was a “Proverbs 31” Woman. She was a mighty prayer warrior and a devoted Christian Phenomenal Woman. As her granddaughter Tima, put it best; “She was the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time)!!!”

Joyce Gilbert departed this earthly life on January 31, 2023. The Matriarch passed away peacefully after a long and full life. She was 83 years old. Joyce was preceded in death by siblings; Johnny Banks, Michael Veberly, Kelly Wright Jones, Claretta West, and George Banks and Grandson, David Ridgeway Jr. (Best known as DJ)

She was left to cherish her loving memory her children: Sheila Ridgeway and Vonita Gilbert; Granddaughter: Shatima (Harold); Five Great Grandchildren: Christopher, Autumn (Miles), Ashleigh, Harold III, and Sean; Great Great Granddaughter: Carter; sister: Christal Jones; Brother: David Jones; and a host of relatives and friends. She was known by man names, Ma, Granny, and many more Her memories will be cherished, and she will be missed. Until we meet again.