Joyce McCoo was born on November 22, 1933 in Lee County, Baldwyn Mississippi; the youngest of 7 children to Vera (Price) and Lee Mack Warren.

Modeling her parent's Godly example, she accepted Christ as her personal Lord and Savior before relocating to St. Louis in 1951.

Joyce's dream of becoming an educator would forever be deterred when she was diagnosed with tuberculosis at 18 and spent more than a year hospitalized.  Though doctors removed one of the diseased lungs, the prognosis given to her family afterwards was not to expect her to live throughout the night; however, she fully recovered as God's glory and plan for her life would be revealed in miracles that impacted generations.

On November 1, 1955 Joyce entered marriage covenant with Fred McCoo. This union would produce 11 children, over 50 grandchildren and at last count at least 30 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. Because she demanded the most proper English be spoken in her home, she only allowed her children to refer to her as Mother, instead of the more common "momma". Her children would affectionally brand her as "Ma".

Mother loved many things except leaving her home. She was content to just sit and watch her favorite tv programs, listen to her gospel music and work her crossword puzzles. She enjoyed cooking; especially traditional meals for the holidays and was always eager to have her children or grandchildren visit. She was also the designated receiver of all postal packages and parcel deliveries for anyone at any time. She was simply always available!

Joyce's manifestation of love for her husband, family and extended circle of influence was patient, kind, did not boast, did not envy, was not proud, rude or self-seeking; kept no record of wrongdoing, rejoiced in the truth, always protected, always trusted, hoped and persevered. It reflected the Grace, Glory and Plan of God for her life that she faithfully imparted as her legacy. Her children have indeed risen and called her blessed and on September 29, 2019 God said "Well done my good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of Your Master"

Joyce was preceded in Eternal life by her husband (Fred McCoo, Sr) her parents and siblings; but commits an unmovable foundation of faith to be built upon by her 11 children (named in birth order below), grandchildren great and great great grandchildren and host of influences from her appointed season of life.