Joyce Ann Washington, born on July 7, 1957 in Phoenix, Arizona, was a beloved daughter of the late George Washington Jr. and Charlesetta Washington. Known closely by her family as Ann, she received her early education in the Phoenix Roosevelt District and graduated from South Mountain High School. She was an enrolled citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
Throughout her life, Joyce held various jobs, including lifeguard at Hermosa Park, City of Phoenix Court Reporter, and even a brief stint as a maid. However, her true calling was in caregiving. Joyce became a certified nursing assistant, a role in which she found great fulfillment, dedicating herself to helping those in need and touching the lives of many throughout her career.
Joyce’s spiritual journey began at a young age when she was baptized and nurtured her relationship with God at Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Phoenix. Her faith was an essential part of her life.
Joyce had a variety of passions that brought her joy. She had a fondness for Mexican food, enjoyed listening to oldies music, and loved to entertain her nieces and nephews by taking them to the mall and the movies. Her greatest achievement was her three children. They meant more to her than anything in this world. Her greatest passion however, was her love for animals, particularly cats and dogs. Throughout her life, she always had a Chihuahua by her side, often taking in stray pets and providing them with the love and care they deserved. One special Chihuahua named Northern was rescued from a busy street on Northern Avenue. Joyce cherished her deeply. Her last dog was named Dog, who will miss her greatly.
Preceding her in death is one sister, Audrey Teresa Washington, and her son, Isiah Patterson.
Joyce Ann Washington leaves behind her beautiful and precious daughters Shawnine Huff and Lakisha Washington, as well as her long-life companion Maurice Patterson. Her siblings, Bella Blakely Hamilton, George W. Washington III, Cassandra Ali, Linda Wilson, and Constance Washington. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, Keira, Xavier, Kamara, Malaysia, Dream, Kal-El, Nova, Shawnine Jr., Xandria, Xavion, and Malakai. Two Great grandchildren, Jaiden and Kyomi.
One Aunt, Sylvia Pitre-Hudson, many nieces and nephews, and other extended family members and friends. Together, they will cherish her memory and honor the love and compassion she brought into their lives. Joyce’s legacy lives on through her family, who will remember her kindness, strength, and unwavering spirit.
