Joyce Mary Tambala-Ononiwu's Obituary
Joyce Mary Tambala Ononiwu was born on November 30, 1948, to Robert and Lucinda Lemons. She was the middle sister to Ennis and Darlena Lemons. Her mother, Lucinda, who eventually raised 3 young children alone dreamed of becoming a Registered Nurse but ironed clothes to feed her children.
Lucinda instilled the importance of education and family in all three of her children.
Joyce and her little sister affectionately known as Lena were so close that she deliberately flunked a grade to remain by Lena’s side in school. Joyce shared a dream of becoming a Registered Nurse with her mom and would let nothing stop her pursuit of being an RN. Prior to her first day of nursing school, she was told that she could not attend while pregnant; Joyce had her child induced and began Nursing School the same
week. Amalishe Anne Tambala was born in the early Fall of 1970; Joyce centered her life around the love of her beautiful daughter.
Joyce fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a Registered Nurse and enjoyed a career in her chosen field.
She purchased a home with her sister, and together they took care of the mother who washed and ironed clothes to raise and feed them.
Joyce enjoyed writing and created many wonderful short stories, one of which was published. She was a strong, independent woman who encouraged those around her to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.
In her later years, she was happiest when surrounded by family and loved to watch Christmas movies year 'round. When her granddaughter Joylanda Tambala- Burch was born, she was overcome with love and required little more than the love of her family; now her life was centered around her two greatest loves, her daughter, Amalishe, and her granddaughter Joylanda.
Joyce Mary Tambala Ononiwu was called home on December 15, 2022, she succumbed to Covid 19. She is survived by Amalishe Tambala, Joylanda Tambala-Burch, her sister Darlena Lemons, her niece Shelanda Lemons, and great-nephew Alexander Swinton. She is dearly loved and will forever grow in the hearts of the people she inspired and loved.
What’s your fondest memory of Joyce?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joyce?
Share a story where Joyce's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joyce you’ll never forget.
How did Joyce make you smile?