Joyce Richardson

Joyce Loudema Richardson, 65, of Elizabethton, Tennessee, passed away on October 24, 2026, surrounded by those who loved her dearly.

Joyce was born on November 23, 1960, in Elizabethton to the late Wanda and Bill Caldwell. She was a member of Valley Forge Freewill Baptist Church, where she also served as custodian for 15 years.

Joyce was the mother of Donnie Lowe and Chris Lowe, both of Bristol, Tennessee. She was a loving Nana to Gavin Lowe of Elizabethton and Jaiden Lowe (Ciara) of Kingsport, whom she raised and who was the light of her life. She also cherished her grandchildren Kennlee Lowe and Cason Lowe, both of Johnson City.

Joyce was happiest when she was sewing. A wonderful seamstress, she made countless costumes for family, friends, and churches. She created the Tuffy mascot uniforms for Elizabethton High School and T.A. Dugger Middle School, as well as three costumes worn in The Chosen. At Valley Forge Freewill Baptist Church, she made sure every costume fit each person perfectly.

Joyce was also known for her "goodies"-especially her famous fudge, cupcakes, and cookies-which she loved sharing with others. She found joy in serving the Lord through volunteer work in her community, at her church, and at Ballad Health Cancer Care in Johnson City, where she had been a patient.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her brother, Tommy Caldwell, and her great-great-niece, Ivey Kate Robinson.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren; her three sisters, Kathy (David) Gilliam of Bristol, Maria (Jerome) Ford of Lenoir, North Carolina, and Brenda (Murrell) Nidiffer of Hampton; and her special niece, Mary Carrier of Bristol. She also leaves behind 12 other nieces and nephews, 28 great-nieces and great-nephews, five great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, and her best friend of more than 40 years, Melissa Millner.

The family extends special thanks to Joyce's church family at Valley Forge Freewill Baptist for their love and support over the years, as well as to Ballad Health Cancer Care in Johnson City and the doctors and staff at Select Specialty Hospital in Bristol.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Valley Forge Freewill Baptist Church or Ballad Health Cancer Care in Johnson City.

A celebration of Joyce's life will be announced by the family at a later date.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family, online condolences can be shared with the family on our website at www.trinitymemorialcenters.com.