Obituary of Joyce Marie Parker

Parker, Joyce Marie Bailey, was born on June 1, 1937 in Atlantic City, New Jersey to the late Georgia Marie Bailey and Alonzo Claude Bailey. She had four siblings; Alonzo, William, Vernon and Patricia. She was predeceased by two brothers: Vernon Bailey and William Bailey. She grew up in Atlantic City and received her early childhood education in the Atlantic City school system. She also attended the Bordentown Manual Training Industrial School in Bordentown, New Jersey. She returned to the Atlantic City High School where she graduated in 1956. Joyce was an excellent concert pianist, taught by her grandmother, Mabel D. Bailey, and her aunt, Henrietta Burk. Joyce was the first African American to play the historical and massive organ in the old Atlantic City Convention Hall, where she played for her graduating class. She was the first student to accompany the Atlantic City Choir. She came from a musically gifted family and her talent was later recognized by the renowned Juilliard School of Music in New York where she was offered a full scholarship. She declined and decided to marry and start a family. Her musical prowess was diverse. Although her main concentratyion was in the classical and gospel genre, she had the opportunity to accompany the then aspiring Patti Labelle and the Bluebells in the early days. She was often used at Patt LaBelle's rehearsals., Known for her grace and beauty, Joyce was crowned Miss Atlantic County in 1955 -- a coveted and honorable distinction. Joyce was joined in Holy Matrimony to Earl K. Parker, Jr. in 1956. Of this union, five children were born: Patricia, Earl III, Tracey, Donna and Tyrone. Joyce was the consummate homemaker. She took her role as mother very seriously and worked diligently to provide a nurturing home. Her cakes were the envy of gourmet chefs and her garden was always immaculately manicured. There was always the sound of music throughout the household. Her home was her castle and her family love was abundant. Joyce confessed to Christ at an early age and was baptized by Reverend Matthew E. Neil at the Union Baptist Temple Church. Mainly due to geography, she joined Living Faith Christian Center. Her health prevented her from active participation as she would have liked, but she remained a faithful member. She departed this world to serve a more peaceful life with the Lord on Tuesday, June 19, 2012. She leaves behind to cherish fond memories: 5 children, Patricia, Earl III, Tracey, Donna and Tyrone; 4 grandchildren, Sherrai, Tiara, Earl IV and Taniyah; 2 great grandchildren, Earl V and Ian; one sister, Patricia Tucker; one brother Alonzo "Buckey" Bailey and one aunt, Frances Riley and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. She will always remain in our hearts with a fervent love and never be forgotten.