Joyce King Powers, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, on May 25, 2026, in St. Charles, Missouri. She left behind a legacy rich with love, faith, and creativity. Born on July 9, 1943, in Orange, Orange County, California, and raised in Burbank, Joyce’s life was a testament to warmth, devotion, and the bright spirit she shared with all who knew her.
Joyce was a dedicated stay-at-home mother and homemaker whose talents knew no bounds. She had a remarkable flair for decorating, blending creativity and care in every detail of her home. Whether transforming rooms or designing exquisite Christmas décor to share during the holiday season, her keen eye and artistic touch brought sunshine into the lives of her family and friends. Joyce was an exceptional seamstress and craftswoman. She sewed her own stunning wedding dress, and she took great joy in crocheting afghans for family and friends. Joyce also lovingly donated countless afghans to a cancer center in Illinois while she lived in Nauvoo for 20 years.
Music touched Joyce’s soul deeply. Known for her sweet voice and love of singing, she carried the joy of song from her youth. Joyce performed the leading roles in high school musicals at Burbank High School.
Above all, Joyce was a woman of profound faith. She devoted herself tirelessly to teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to her children, instilling in them a personal testimony rooted in scripture. Her children, shaped by faith and example, embraced the gospel fully. They hold dear the inspired words found in Alma: “They had been taught by their mother, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them...We doubt not our mother knew it.” This scripture speaks volumes of her guiding strength and spiritual wisdom. Joyce’s many hours spent in church service, coupled with her endless acts of kindness, reflected her unwavering commitment as a beloved member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Genealogy and family history were passions that allowed Joyce to bridge past and present. With tireless dedication, she brought ancestors’ stories to life, connecting generations through love and faith. She has surely been joyfully reunited with not only her late husband and son but also thousands of ancestors grateful for her efforts in linking them eternally within God’s family through temple work.
Joyce’s family was her greatest treasure. She is survived by her cherished children: Lance King (Melanie), Cynthia Gifford (Shaun), Wendy Bentley (Jon), and David Powers King (JoAnna). Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren—Samantha King Stuart (Cole), Patrick King (Ally), Brian King, Emily King, Matthew King, Miranda Gifford, Evan Bentley, David Bentley, Loria King, Ella Bentley, Kevin Gifford, Steven Bentley, and Evelyn King—and her precious great-grandchildren: Jane Stuart, Thomas Stuart, Marci Stuart, Emmett King, Lydia Stuart, and Elliot King. Joyce is also survived by loving nieces and nephews, countless friends, cousins Kathi and Tim Powers, and her wonderful King in-laws, all of whom were deeply touched by her generosity and radiant personality.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, David Foster King, and their son, Patrick Foster King, as well as her parents Wilbur and Fay Rene Powers and sister Clarice Tucker.
Joyce King was a beacon of light—sunshine personified—with a bright, loving, and inviting nature that made everyone feel at home. Her kindness, faith, artistry, and love nurtured not only her family but the countless lives she touched. As we remember her, we honor her strength to endure and to hope and a spirit that will forever inspire.
Family, friends, and loved ones will gather to celebrate Joyce’s life at Forest Lawn – Hollywood Hills, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, California 90068, with visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:15 AM followed by the graveside service from 12:30 PM until 1:00 PM on June 20, 2026.
Though we say goodbye in this world, and look to the day when we will meet at Jesus' feet, her memory and love endure eternally in the hearts of those fortunate to know her.
