LaJoyce Price McDuffie

LaJoyce Price McDuffie, a prayer warrior and devoted mother, caregiver, precious aunt, and friend, transitioned to her eternal rest on June 27, 2025, in Garland, Texas. She was born on June 3, 1953, in Marshall, Texas. LaJoyce was a beacon of love and compassion to all who were fortunate to know her. She was surrounded by the gentle teachings of her maternal grandmother, Rachel Shephard. She was baptized as a young girl at Rock Springs Baptist Church in Marshall, Texas. Upon moving to Dallas her faith culminated in her becoming a member at Greater Spring Missionary Baptist Church, where she was under the guidance of Rev. Flint.

LaJoyce pursued her education in the Marshall Independent School District and proudly graduated from Marshall High School in 1971. Following her graduation LaJoyce moved to Dallas, Texas. She attended El Centro College. LaJoyce worked at Cedar Crest Child Care Center in Dallas, under the loving leadership of Mrs. Mattie Mae Burleson. LaJoyce cherished the precious moments spent caring for children, treating them as if they were her own. Her boundless love knew no hours, as she opened her heart and home to those children whose parents needed her support.

LaJoyce, found love in Bobby Ray Bailey, and together, they welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Karen Eunice Bailey. Later, she married Fred Lee McDuffie, and to this union, they were blessed with beautiful baby girl, Felicia Francois McDuffie. Her daughters were the light of her life affectionately called “my flowers.” LaJoyce nurtured their dreams and happiness, and embodied the essence of motherhood.

LaJoyce’s career flourished at Meadow Green Nursing Home, where she was a devoted employee for ten years caring for the elderly. Her compassion and empathy shone brightly during her nineteen-year tenure at Juliette Fowler Nursing Home, where she was cherished for her unwavering commitment to those who needed it most. Even after her retirement, LaJoyce’s spirit of care never changed; she returned briefly to work at Sheranda’s Playhouse #2, embracing the joy of caring for children.

LaJoyce had a passion for cooking, especially her famous lamb chops, and it brought her immense joy to feed others. She had a tender heart for the community, believing that every small act of kindness mattered. LaJoyce also enjoyed sewing, listening to spirituals and sermons, reading, watching sports, and viewing National Geographic Documentaries which reflected her curiosity and passion for life.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her daughters, Karen Bailey-Crenshaw (Jay) and Felicia Francois Mejias (Ruben); her cherished siblings, Sharon Ayers, Carolyn Marie Milton, Peggy Spencer-Brown (Norman), and Jackie Yancy-Jackson (Kenneth); her brothers, Willie Jerome Price, Timothy Williams, and Anthony Price; as well as her adored grandchildren, LaAnndrewlyn Bailey Biggins, Ruben E. Mejias, and Bria Janeal Collins. Her vast circle of friends, including a special friend, Mozell Spencer-Powell, Carolyn Gay, Veronica Dunn, Diane McKnight, and Harold Lovely; along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and friends whose lives she touched.

LaJoyce was preceded in death by her mother, Thelma Marie Price Shephard; grandmothers, Rachel Shephard and Addie Price; grandfathers, Don Shephard and Elzie Price; father, Prentice Price, Sr.; sister, Karen Denise Jammer; brothers, Prentice Price, Jr., Odell Pilot, Kenneth Wayne Price, and Jerry Pilot; and niece, Deshibra Spencer.

LaJoyce’s life was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and service. LaJoyce Price McDuffie will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

A visitation to celebrate her life will take place on July 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Lincoln Funeral Home & Memorial Parks in Dallas, followed by a Funeral Service on July 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Rhodes Terrace Bible Fellowship Church in Dallas.