Joyce Hayes

Melton

Joyce LaVerne Hayes Melton, a devoted educator, faithful servant, and pillar of her community, was born in Richmond, Virginia to the late Lucy Corbett Hayes and Thomas Christopher Hayes. She departed this life, leaving a legacy defined by service, compassion, and quiet strength.

Joyce began her educational journey at George Mason Elementary School and graduated from Armstrong High School in June 1948. While at Armstrong, she was an engaging and vibrant student—serving as co-captain of the cheering squad, a proud member of the Student Council and Student Court, and earning the honor of being voted "Most Congenial" by her senior classmates. She continued her education at Virginia Union University, where she proudly became a Panther and completed her undergraduate studies in 1953.

Her faith was central to her life. Joyce was baptized and confirmed at St. Philip's Episcopal Church, where she served faithfully in numerous roles. In 1995, she joined The Church of the Epiphany, continuing her commitment to ministry as a vestry member, leader of Chapter 2, and corresponding secretary for the Women of the Church.

On August 1, 1953, Joyce was united in holy matrimony to Herman Dillard Melton, Jr., at St. Philip's Episcopal Church. Their loving union was blessed with one daughter, Loren Hayes Melton.

Joyce dedicated 35 years to Richmond Public Schools, where she was known as an outstanding, competent, and compassionate educator. She was a sought-after teacher, admired by parents and beloved by students whose lives she shaped profoundly. Her students went on to become ministers, politicians, judges, lawyers, teachers, public administrators, doctors, engineers, firefighters, nurses, and more—each a testament to her enduring influence.

Her teaching career began in September 1953 at Sidney Elementary School, followed by Randolph Elementary in 1954 and Fairmont Elementary in 1958. In 1967, just a few years after the Commonwealth of Virginia's era of Massive Resistance to school desegregation, Joyce answered the call to help integrate Highland Park Elementary. She embraced the challenge with quiet courage, becoming, like so many of her peers, both an educator and a civil rights advocate for her students and community.

She later taught at Ginter Park Elementary, where she worked across multiple grade levels and buildings during its pairing with Mary Scott Elementary. Even after her official

retirement in 1988, Joyce's passion for education endured. She continued as a substitute teacher and tutor throughout Richmond Public Schools, nurturing generations of students and maintaining strong relationships with their families.

In 1995, she entered a new phase of service as a volunteer at Chimborazo Elementary School, where one day per week soon grew into five—reflecting her deep love for children and commitment to education.

Joyce's dedication extended well beyond the classroom. She was a devoted member of Club Dejouir for over 60 years, serving in numerous local offices and ultimately as National President. She was also a Platinum member of the Richmond Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, a distinction she held in high esteem. She was honored at the organization's National Assembly in Orlando, Florida in 2012. As a Link, Joyce held various offices and worked on multiple committees at the chapter level. In 1981, she joined the Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, continuing her lifelong commitment to sisterhood and service.

In her later years, Joyce was supported with great care and compassion by: Darlene Bowman as well as the dedicated team from JerShySage Family In-Home Health Caring - Linda Johnson, Victoria Hernandez, Katrina Brown, Keyera Carter, Doreatha Rice, Beverly James, Flessia Carter, and Patricia Byrd.

Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Herman Dillard Melton, Jr., and her parents. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughter, Loren Hayes Melton Glasper; one grandson, Christopher Derrick Glasper (Erica); one granddaughter, Erica Loren Glasper Brunt (Jamal); two great-granddaughters, Peyton Erica and Price Elizabeth Brunt; one great-grandson, Jalen Dillard Brunt; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Joyce LaVerne Hayes Melton's life was a testament to the power of education, faith, and service. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family will receive friends Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Scott's Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Special memorial services by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and The Links will be held during this time. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 24 at Church of the Epiphany, 8000 Hermitage Road, Richmond, VA.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Epiphany, 8000 Hermitage Road, Richmond, VA 23228.