"Bobbie J. Boyce

February 12, 1940 – April 29, 2026

Bobbie J. Boyce was born on February 12, 1940, to Robert Gardner Sr. and Lottie Albright in Collierville, Tennessee. She graduated from Pigsah High School, where she played on the basketball team. Following high school, Bobbie married Charles E. Boyce Sr., and from their union the had four children: Charles E. Boyce Jr., Cathy L. Boyce, the late Demetrius J. Boyce, and Vanessa "Jean" Williamson. She was incredibly proud to be the mother of four United States Army veterans.

Professionally, Bobbie worked as a bank teller, but she pursued her true passion as a seamstress at Levy's and James Davis. She traveled, visiting several different states and even residing in Germany with her daughter, Cathy.

After settling in Georgia, Bobbie became an active and devoted member of Baconton Missionary Baptist Church. She served faithfully as an usher, and her profound dedication earned her a ten-year pin with the Usher Convention of the General Missionary Baptist Convention, Inc. of Georgia. She was eventually honored to be a Mother of the Church, affectionately known to all as "Mother Boyce." Her wisdom, guidance, and presence were well-received across various ministries, including the Summer Camp Program, where she was a consistent pillar of love and support.

Mother Boyce gained her wings on April 29, 2026. She was preceded in death by her son, Demetrius J. Boyce; her parents, Robert Gardner Sr. and Lottie Albright Gardner; her sister, Birda May Higgs; and her brothers, Robert Gardner Jr., John Robert Gardner, Lawrence Gardner, and Lester "Spookie" Gardner.

She leaves behind a beautiful family to carry on her legacy, including her children: Charles E. Boyce Jr. of North Carolina, Cathy L. Boyce of Georgia, and Vanessa "Jean" Williamson (and son-in-law, Howard) of Alabama.

She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Quesha V. Harper, DeRon M. Harper (and granddaughter-in-law, Melanie), Kanisha A. Thorpe, and Jaqisha S. Danielly, all of Georgia; Isiah J. Williamson of Alabama; and Demetrious J. McGowan, Ayana J Boyce, Leani R. Boyce, and Jayana L Boyce, all of South Carolina. Her memory will live on through her great-grandchildren: Aryanna L. Scott, Yazmin M. Harper, Naomi E. Harper, Jayanna Boyce, Soni A. Thorpe, and Isla G. Williamson; as well as her great-great-granddaughter, Zaveah A. Hudson.

She also leaves behind her beloved siblings: Sara Beal, Frank Gardner (Idella), William Gardner (Ida), and Jerry Gardner, all of Memphis, and Perry Gardner (Marilyn) of Alabama, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved her dearly."