Joyce Elaine (Perry) Irby was born on December 12, 1955, in Washington, D.C. to the late Donald F. and Alice L.E. (Coley) Perry. She was the second born of six children. After s sudden illness Joyce transitioned peacefully on August 05,2018. Joyce was educated in the District of Columbia Public School system and graduated in the first full class of Woodson Senior High School in 1975.She completed training at Opportunities Indusrialization Center (OIC / DC) Post Secondary Education. Joyce had several jobs before she started at the Department of Justice, Immigration of Naturalization Service in May 1978, where she had a distinguished career of more than thirty years. She retired in July 2012. Joyce had a contagious smile. She was a quiet and meek person; she was a peacemaker, she never mised her voice, argued or had a bad word for anyone, Joyce saw the good in everyone regardless of the situation. Joyce loved her family; that included many lifelong friends that she embraced. She would do anything for her family and friends and she always provided moral support and encouragement. As a teenager Joyce was a member of the socially active black power Soul Diggers, group in the Eastgate community, the group helped with community events and looked real cool with their afros and jean jackets. As an adult, Joyce was a member of the Ladies on the Go, and she traveled with this group to many fun and exotic places. Joyce also enjoyed crocheting and sewing.
Joyce accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. She first joined Greater Tried Stone Baptist Church, and was currently an active member of All Nations Baptist Church; when she sing in the choir; attended bible study, and participated in feeling and ministering to the homeless at Calvary Homeless shelter. Joyce was a devoted Mother and Grandmother who always provided love, comfort and she went the extra mile when needed. She was a loving Sister, Aunt, Cousin, Godmother and friend. She leaves to cherish her memory, two sons, De' Andre and Donnell Thomas, one Granddaughter, Dymauni Thomas; two Brothers, Reginald L. and Sherman F. Beal  (Annesia); one Sister, Sharon R. Beal- Hill (James); one Uncle Keith Perry; one Aunt, Anita Ware; one Great-Aunt, Mary Perry. A very special niece and riding partner, Nakiah Watson Keys; a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. Godsister, Leisa Chatman Holland (Raymond); two devoted friends, James and Lola Jackson, better known as Cousin Jack and Ms. Lola. Three special friends; Pamela Walker, Marjorie Carter and Barbara King- Willis. She was preceded in death by a Brother, William Michael Perry; a Sister, Dorothy Beal; and Step-Father Bobby Carter. Joyce loved with her heart, not with her eyes.