On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, First Lady Joyce Fields departed this life and transitioned to her Heavenly home. Joyce was born in Brunswick County, Virginia on March 8, 1950, to the late George Harrison Sr. and Florence Lambert Harrison.

Her parents; brother, Dennis; sister, Muriel; brother-in-law, Michael; and sister-in-law, Cynthia Fields preceded her in death.

In 1953, her family relocated to Harlem, New York. Soon thereafter, they moved to Brooklyn, New York, and later migrated to Queens, New York.

On April 30, 1967, she met the love of her life, Marvin "Mousy" Fields. The two fell in love and married on July 4, 1970. They were blessed with two children, Duane and Marquita, whom she affectionately called "Puddin" and "Muffin". Her children were her life; however, she truly adored her five grandchildren.

Joyce attended Public School in New York City. She graduated from Springfield Gardens High School in 1968. After high school, she pursued her passion for fashion and attended the famed Fashion Institute. With her love for fashion, she forged a remarkable career as the first Black buyer for J.C Penney. She retired in 1988 after 25 years of service.

On December 12, 1988, First Lady Fields and her family relocated to Dawn, Virginia, the home of her husband, Marvin Fields. Desiring a new career, she began her employment at Randolph Macon College as a Treasurer Assistant. She served in this role for 20 years and impacted the lives of many students and faculty.

Her life replicated that of immeasurable faith, as she knew how to put her complete trust in the Lord. She endured various health challenges including stage 4 breast cancer, a collapsed lung, C.O.P.D, and most recently LAM disease. Through it all, she never complained. Joyce's endurance captivated the attention of everyone she met, as she would always use her testimony to encourage others who were facing medical challenges. Her favorite scripture and motto were Proverbs 3: 5-6, "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths".

"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates."   Proverbs 31: 10-11, 31

For 25 years, First Lady Joyce Fields gracefully served as the First Lady of Second Mount Zion Baptist Church alongside her husband, Pastor Marvin Fields. She loved and encouraged every person with the love of Christ. She could always be found with a smile on her face and a kind word to share. First Lady Fields took joy in giving God praise despite her many challenges. For her church family she served in many capacities: a mother, a sister, a friend, and sometimes just a listening ear. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of calling her "First Lady."

She leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, Pastor Marvin M. Fields; one son, Bishop Duane T. Fields, Sr. (Sheree); one daughter, Marquita Fields (James Wynn, fiancé); five grandchildren, Duane T. Fields, Jr., Destiny Fields, Jordan Hawkins, Jamir Hawkins, and Jamiyah Wynn; one brother, George Harrison, Jr.; one aunt, Grizzelle Leaper; father and mother-in-law, Deacon Thomas and Deaconess Irene Fields; one brother-in-law, Deacon Martin Fields;  and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Her earthly presence will be greatly missed as we celebrate her eternal victory in Christ Jesus.