Joyce Elizabeth Cowan Sermon, the beloved daughter of Frank Cowan Sr. and Rutha Mae Bell, was born on Monday, October 15, 1945, in Palatka, Florida. She was a 1963 graduate of Central Academy High School, Palatka. During her high school years, Joyce enjoyed basketball and hanging out with her friends and family. She embarked on a remarkable journey filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to education.

Joyce's pursuit of knowledge led her to Florida A & M University, in Tallahassee, Florida, where she graduated 3rd in her class with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics Education. Her passion for teaching blossomed early, and upon completing school, she dedicated herself to shaping young minds.

With a heart set to serve, Joyce served as a teacher across the state of Florida from Lincoln Park Academy in Fort Pierce, Florida in the late 1960s to Rogers Jr. High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She continued her noble work in the Putnam County School District at Palatka High School completing a 35-year career in her infamous high heels and hoop earrings. She had a remarkable ability to remember her students long after they left her class, always asking about their lives and expecting the best from them. This genuine interest and unwavering belief in their potential continued to motivate and inspire them for every public encounter.

Joyce's impact extended far beyond the classroom. She was a pillar of strength and wisdom for her family, and her memory will be cherished by her beloved husband, Horace J. Sermon, Sr.; daughters Sheena (David) Miller, Stefany (Demetricus) Mosley; Lillian Sermon, Joycelyn (Michael, Sr.) Crimbley; son H. John (Tiffany) Sermon; grandchildren AnJuan Brown, AnShuan (Nicole) Brown, Job Curington, Marquise Miller, Devin Miller, Deyani Stewart, Bryson Bryant, Jayden Mosley, Destany Mosley, Michael Crimbley, II, Jasmyne Crimbley, Myles Crimbley, Mason Crimbley; great-grandchild Naomi Brown. She was also a loving sister and sister-in-law to Barbara Martin, Ron Cowan, Pamela Knowles, Jacquline (Nathaniel) Mulkey, Rosa Cowan, Mildred (Len) Yearwood, Arthur (Doris) Sermon, Bishop Saunders (Pam) Sermons, Novella Sermon, Milton Sermons, Sandra Sermons, Loretta (Ernest) Bradley. Joyce's legacy of love and gratitude will also be carried on by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in eternal rest by her brothers Frank Cowan, II., Tarone Cowan; sisters-in-law, Ann Perkins, Esther Fleming, Levonia (Ernest) Wright; brother-in-law Mark Sermons.

Joyce found solace and strength in reading her favorite scriptures and messages in Our Daily Bread & InTouch publications, which encapsulated her unwavering faith and resilience. She enjoyed sewing, shopping, and having big family gatherings with lots of food, and especially dessert.

She was a lifelong member of Bethel A.M.E., Palatka. She served the Lord faithfully and this spiritual home served as a continuous support for fostering her deep faith and commitment to service.

Joyce Elizabeth Cowan Sermon entered eternal life on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, after a 2 ½ year battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith. Her courage in the face of adversity and her determination to live life to the fullest, even during her illness, were truly inspirational. She will be remembered for her boundless love, infectious smile, and incredible elegance.

May she rest in peace and rise in glory, knowing that her influence will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Well done, faithful servant, enter into the joy of our Lord.

A Memorial Celebration in honor of Joyce's life will be 3 p.m., Saturday, September 28 at Palatka High School, 302 Mellon Road, Palatka.