Newport News- Joyce Louise Thomas, 70, passed away December 24, 2015 after a 14 year battle with leukemia. She was born and raised in Pennsylvania, having lived most of her life in Chester, but spent her final years living in Newport News, VA with her sons Jeremy and Richard and her dog Shaggy. Joyce worked as a nurse’s aide with Harlee Manor in Springfield, PA. She was a loving Mom and friend, and an avid animal lover, she will be missed.
Joyce is preceded in death by her parents David O. Barlow, Jr. and Edna Mae Graham Barlow; and her 2nd husband Gary R. Thomas. She is survived by her children Robin Billmyer of Rolesville, NC, Vicky Haines of Aston, PA, Jeremy J. Nichols of Newport News, VA, Jamie Nichols of Brookhaven, PA, Jason Nichols of Kennett Square, PA, Janna Nichols of Poquoson, VA, and Richard D. Thomas of Newport News, VA; her 1st husband John D. Nichols, Jr.; 13 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; aunt Doris Furlong and her daughters Janice and Carolyn of Upland, PA; and her beloved dog Shaggy.
Donations to assist the family may be made to www.tmcfunding.com.
she was a courageous fighter till the end and the only person that ever understood me. she loved all her dogs she had in her lifetime. she was proud to have been from Pennsylvania and never lost her love for her home state. she was the toughest person I ever knew and always supported me. she was the best mom I ever could have had. I will not forget you mom I promise and neither will shaggy. your loving son Richard aka(snoot)
I had the honor of knowing her in Virginia. She was such a wonderful person to know and will be missed! Sending my sympathy, Kim