Mrs. Mary Joyce "Mae Joyce" (Faulkner) Anderson-Farris

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Mrs. Mary Joyce “Mae Joyce” (Faulkner) Anderson- Farris With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the beautiful and rich life of Mary Joyce “Mae Joyce” (Faulkner) Anderson- Farris, 76, of Peoria. In the early afternoon of Monday, February 3, 2025, at 12:54 p.m., Mary Joyce peacefully closed her eyes on Earth, surrounded by her family at OSF St. Francis Hospital, and opened them in Heaven. Affectionately known as "Mae Joyce", she was the last living matriarch of her family—a pillar of strength, wisdom, and boundless love. Born in Scotts, Mississippi, she was one of twelve children blessed to Sam and Cenilious (Petty) Faulkner. Mae Joyce was a woman of deep faith and unwavering dedication. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at a young age and carried her faith throughout her life. As a Charter Member of New Cornerstone Baptist Church, she served faithfully as an usher, always greeting others with warmth and a smile. Mae Joyce had an incredible work ethic, she retired in 2006 after many dedicated years as a bus driver for Peoria District 150 and had previously worked at the Workforce Development office. Beyond her work and faith, Mae Joyce lived a life full of joy and simple pleasures. She was an avid reader, a devoted fan of soap operas and game shows, and above all, a storyteller whose laughter and wisdom filled every room she entered. She had a way of making everyone feel at home, and her contagious smile could brighten even the darkest days. More than anything, Mae Joyce cherished her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, deeply loved and respected in her community. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will live on through the lives she touched. She is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Michael J. Farris of Peoria, IL; her three devoted daughters, Kecia (Reverend Demetrius) Randle, Trinka Anderson, and Jalisa Anderson, all of Peoria; her beloved brother, Wardell “Ward” (Willielean) Faulkner of Pinehurst, NC; her cherished grandchildren: Karah, Jeremy (Ashley), Jasmine, Tiona, Teriana, Kyle, Xyhia, and Jahkhail; twelve great-grandchildren; her godson, Tyne Bryson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. She is now joyfully reunited in Heaven with her parents, six sisters: Hattie B. Mason, Ida Mae Bryant, Willie Sam Williams, Corine “Nell” McClain, Augusta “Snook” Faulkner, and Curtistine Young; and four brothers: E.B. Faulkner, Douglas Falkner, Grover Faulkner, and Roosevelt Faulkner all of whom welcomed her with open arms. Mae Joyce’s life was a testament to faith, love, and unwavering kindness. Her presence was a gift, her love was a blessing, and her spirit will continue to shine through all who knew and loved her. Though we mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing she now rests in the arms of her Savior, watching over us all. Well done, good and faithful servant. Rest in His eternal peace. A Homegoing Celebration will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at her home church, New Cornerstone Baptist Church, with a visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Dr. Mark A. McConnell, Pastor, will officiate. Mae Joyce will be laid to rest at Swan Lake Memory Gardens. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com.

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Mrs. Mary Joyce "Mae Joyce" (Faulkner) Anderson-Farris

March 20, 1948 - February 3, 2025