Joyce Thigpen

Joyce Lavern Thigpen, age 95, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2025.

Joyce was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. At the young age of fifteen, she met the love of her life, Newton J. Thigpen, Sr., and fell head over heels for him. The two shared a lifetime of love, devotion, and family together. She was a woman of great strength and faith, and she dedicated her life to caring for her family.

Joyce was the proud mother of twelve children, and she gave each one her unwavering love and support. Her greatest joy was found in her family, and she will be remembered for her kindness, patience, and the unconditional love she showed to all who knew her.

In addition to caring for her own family, Joyce extended her compassion to others as a sitter for Amedisys Hospice, where she lovingly cared for patients in their times of need. She had a true servant's heart and found deep purpose in helping others feel comforted and cared for.

She is survived by her children: Donald Thigpen (Peggy) of Lake Charles, LA; Joyce Richard of Lake Charles, LA; Debbie Thigpen of Houston, TX; Dennie Thigpen of Lake Charles, LA; Virgil Thigpen of Kinder, LA; Ricky Thigpen of Houston, TX; Charlotte Leatherwood (Darrin) of The Woodlands, TX; and Tracy Thigpen of Houston, TX; along with 24 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Newton J. Thigpen, Sr.; her sons Jerrell Thigpen, Rev. John Thigpen, Ernest Thigpen, and Rodney Thigpen.

A funeral service to honor Joyce's life will take place on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Apostolic Temple of Lake Charles. The funeral will be officiated by Rev. Ricky Treece, Reverend Jordan Anderson, and Reverend Luke Thigpen. Visitation will also be held on Friday, beginning at 10:00 a.m. and continuing until the start of the service. A graveside service will follow at Creel Cemetery in Reeves, LA.