Joyce Maureen Phillips Bane

Joyce Maureen Phillips Bane was born to Royce and Ima Phillips in the east Texas farming community of Yowell on September 18, 1937. The youngest of four, she was adored by siblings Sue, Frances and Tom. Joyce graduated valedictorian from Commerce High School in 1954, earning an academic scholarship to East Texas State. There she met ET tennis player, Malcolm Bane, on a blind date. Mac and Joyce married in August 1957 and shared 67 wonderful years of true partnership. They welcomed Kirk in 1964 and Kim five years later. Joyce taught English for more than 25 years in Pecan Gap, Hurst, McDade and College Station, sparking a love of reading in many students.

Joyce enjoyed flower gardening, crossword puzzles and went all out decorating for every holiday. A frequent visitor to Fort Worth, Salado, east Texas and Glorieta, she enjoyed antiquing and shopping along the way. Joyce was kind, thoughtful, observant and intensely devoted to her family. She loved unconditionally and possessed a quiet strength. She cherished her role as “G-ma” to granddaughters Elizabeth and Caroline. Whether it was a slumber party or telling stories of being a girl back in the day, Joyce loved spending time with her girls.

Joyce leaves behind to cherish her memory, son Kirk (Penny), daughter Kim (Shawn), and granddaughters Elizabeth (Scotty) and Caroline. She is also survived by her brother Tom Phillips (Martha), brother-in-law Bill Bane (Alma) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joyce is preceded in death by her parents, sisters and her beloved husband, Malcolm.

1 Peter 3:4 “…the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”

A special appreciation to the staff at Crestview Methodist Retirement Community for their loving care of Joyce for the last 14 months.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to: Hospice Brazos Valley, Crestview Methodist Retirement Community or the American Cancer Society.

A memorial service will be held at Callaway-Jones in Bryan at 1pm on Friday, April 10, 2026.