Joyce Elaine Tucker

Joyce Elaine Tucker (Patton) was born on July 9th, 1952 in Nashville, TN. She transitioned on April 16th, 2023 at the age of 70. Joyce is survived by her two daughters, Yulonda Martin and Kaleena Sales; sons-in-law, Rodney Martin and Jason Sales; her loving grandchildren, her siblings, Patricia Rucker and Raymond Patton, and a host of nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed by her companion, Billy Cannon, and her closest friends, Patrice Clark and Norma Jean Baskerville (the Golden Girls). Joyce is preceded in death by her parents, William and Ella Patton (Summers), her husband, George Tucker, and her siblings, Herman (Plukum), William (Bill), Van, and Dennis.


Joyce was a fun-spirited woman who loved to laugh and enjoy life. She cherished time with friends, family, and loved ones. Joyce lived a full life with many interesting journeys. At North High, not only did she achieve academic success, but she was also a member of the half-timer’s dance team. In her early adulthood, she was active duty in the Air Force and Army for 6 years, then served the Tennessee National Guard and Reserves for another 7 years. Many people might also remember that Joyce was a licensed cosmetologist for many years. In recent years, Joyce’s love for life was on full display as she enjoyed traveling, bowling, and dining out. Joyce’s favorite meals often included bread, a good salad, and fresh sweet tea. Weeks before her passing, she confidently declared, “I’ve had a great life!”