Joyce Dean Pounds, 91, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of faith, love, and family that will endure for generations to come. Joyce was born in Paris (Midway), Texas, on September 14, 1934 to the late Willie Lee Shew and Coy Quilla (Giffith) Shew. Joyce was one of seven children and grew up in a close-knit family environment that profoundly shaped her values. She remained deeply connected to her surviving siblings—Nelda Milling, Peggy Rice, Norma Beard, and Sheila Todd—speaking with them nearly every day until recently. These daily conversations brought immeasurable joy to each of them throughout their lives. Joyce graduated from Delmar High School in Paris, Texas. Joyce married Charles Wayne Pounds and built a life centered in Houston, Texas. Charles preceded her in death. Together, they created a family that became the heart of Joyce's world and her greatest source of joy. She was a devoted wife and mother to her three children: Charles (Chuck) Wayne, Jr. and Cecil Bryan. She was preceded in death by her middle son, Curtis Lynn Pounds.

Her love multiplied as her family grew. Joyce was an extraordinarily devoted grandmother to Justin, Bryan, Corey, Charlie, Tatum, Stratton, and Hayes, and her legacy continued through her great-grandchildren and extended family members, who affectionately knew her as "NaNa." Joyce worked at Cameron Iron Works and concluded her career at Armco Steel in Houston. However, as she would have said, her life's true work was her family. She poured herself into the people she loved, creating a home where everyone felt welcomed, known, and deeply cared for. The North Shore home was far more than a gathering place for her memorable meals—it was a sanctuary where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and cherished memories were created. Family events centered around games of washers and cards, with one particularly fond memory being Charles's playful strategy of throwing down the "Skip" card to affectionately tease Joyce during their games.

Joyce's greatest joy was being surrounded by family, whether at home, at church, or cheering enthusiastically at any sporting event involving her loved ones. She never missed an opportunity to show up for those she cherished. The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 11:00 to 12:30 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the Fellowship of the Nations Church, 13305 Woodforest Blvd., Houston, Texas with graveside services to follow at 1:00 p.m. in San Jacinto Memorial Cemetery at 1:00 p.m., Brother Johnny Brady officiating.