Joyce Bowles Hicks

Joyce Bowles Hicks, 93, of Forest, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025.

Born on September 23, 1931, in Bedford County, Joyce was the daughter of the late James Maxey Bowles and Nora Catherine Atkins Bowles. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Thomas Hicks, Jr., and her cherished son, Sanford Lee Rockecharlie.

Joyce was known for her unwavering dedication and strong work ethic, retiring as a bookkeeper from Hills Department Store after 43 years of faithful service. A devoted member of Lebanon United Methodist Church, she lived a life grounded in faith, family, and determination.

With a sharp mind and a spirited nature, Joyce brought joy and grace to all who knew her. She took pride in her appearance, always keeping her hair, makeup, and nails just right. She had a zest for life and a love of travel, music, and dancing in her younger years. Above all, she was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.

Left to cherish her memory are her three daughters, Linda Gregory (Gary), Vicky Lang (Preston), and Pam Wilmouth; nine grandchildren, Rebecca Myers (Malcolm), Nicole Crain, Kristin Jacobs (Drew), Lauren Baker (Nate), Johnny Bartell (Mandy), Tammy Gutleber (Jon), Heather Byfield (Chris), Chris Wilmouth (Megan), and Morgan Thomas (Mathew); 21 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and two brothers, Raymond Bowles and Roger Bowles.

A service celebrating her life and faith will be conducted at 12 Noon, Thursday, July 31, 2025 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel. Interment will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to Lebanon United Methodist Church, 4565 New London Rd., Forest, VA 24551.

Joyce's legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.