Joyce Beck Pearson was born at home on May 20, 1939, to the union of John and Lucille Beck, in Detroit, Michigan. She was the fifth of six siblings.

Joyce accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at New Light Baptist Church. In he mid "80's, she joined Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Frederick G. Sampson where she sand in the Women's choir and enjoyed the membership of other groups at Tabernacle. Joyce attended Detroit Public Schools, graduating from Commerce High School. While in school, Joyce learned to play and master the Upright String bass, becoming a member of the all-city high school orchestra. Joyce also helped form an all-girl singing group, The Smooth Sailors, where her and the group sang at local community talent events.

Joyce was joined in marriage to Fred M. Pearson; to this union two children were born: Keith Pearson and Krystal Rucker.

Upon completing high school, Joyce completed numerous business courses at the  University of Detroit and Wayne County Community College. She than began working for the Detroit Board of Education where she retired after thirty years as Head Secretary. Because of her love of people and politics she became a Union Representative for the Detroit Association of Educational Office Employees. Joyce helped many with their employment issues while serving as a Union Representative. She also worked briefly for Ford Motor Company and was part owner in Pearson's Grocery Store.

Joyce also loved to travel, it has been said. "That if it was moving, she was going!' she has an insatiable love for her family and close friends. She loved to fellowship with them playing games, enjoying meals and sharing family history.

Joyce knew her macaroni and cheese was expected at EVERY family gathering. She became the second mother to all her nieces and nephews, who embraced her love unconditionally. Joyce also was an avid reader and writer, she possessed a unique sense of humor and thought laughter would cure anything.

Joyce departed this life on Sunday, August 25, 2019. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lucille-Beck; and all of her siblings, Milton Stromile, Mary Griffin, Delores Dotson, Janet Spencer, and Jane Smith. She leaves to cherish her loving memory: her children, Keith Pearson and Krystal Rucker; surrogate granddaughter, Shawnica Hill; a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She will be forever loved and missed by all.