Joyce Orinthia Richards-Martin, 91, of Roxbury, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Monday, April 28, 2025. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, on August 1, 1933, Joyce was the first-born daughter of Herbert and Dionie Felicita Richards of Saint Andrew, Jamaica.
Affectionately known as “Mama,” Joyce was a strong, independent, and determined woman who devoted her life to caring for her family. She courageously left Jamaica with her two youngest children to begin a new chapter in the United States, eventually settling in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Her deep commitment to family was evident as she worked tirelessly to reunite her loved ones, successfully bringing her remaining four children and two grandsons to join her within four years.
In the summer of 1982, Joyce married Thomas Martin, the love of her life. Together, they shared a devoted and enduring marriage for over 65 years. Joyce worked at Brigham and Women’s Hospital for 10 years before training as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She served as a nursing assistant until an unfortunate accident led to her early retirement.
Joyce was a woman of many talents. She loved to sing, dance, and act. A gifted seamstress, she also enjoyed crocheting doilies and cushions. In their spare time, Joyce and Thomas loved going to the racetracks, especially Wonderland—where they often came home winners.
Joyce was preceded in death by her mother, beloved brother Keith Richards, and sons Kendrick “Ken” Benson and Nikita “Junior” Martin.
She is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Martin; sisters Windel Hines and Marjorie Mulrain; brother-in-law Leon Mulrain; children Alphonso Richards and wife Sarita Richards, Carol White, Paulette Martin, Allan “Howard” Martin and wife Annette Martin, Claire “Annie” Martin-Douglas; and stepdaughter Patricia “P” Martin.
She leaves a remarkable legacy through her 30 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Joyce’s strength, spirit, and unwavering love will forever live in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.
Viewing in the Parkway United Methodist Church, 158 Blue Hills Parkway, Milton Monday, May 19th at 10 am. Services to follow at 11:30 am. To View Service Live Stream Click Here. Burial to follow in Forest Hills Cemetery, 95 Forest Hills Avenue, Boston.