Honor Joyce Marks: Donate to Jackson County Food Bank

It's hard to think of Joyce Marks without picturing a life of unending selflessness, servitude, and resilience. Joyce moved to Jackson County, Kentucky, in 1965 with her husband, Melvin Marks. With nine children to feed in a small Grey Hawk home, Joyce had every reason to avoid taking on more responsibility.

However, this did not stop her. Alongside being one of the first volunteers with the Christian Appalachian Project, Joyce has been the volunteer director of the Jackson County Food Bank since its inception in 1986. Countless people have been the beneficiary of her unending selflessness and acts of service. When donations to the food bank became few and far between, Joyce and Melvin would use what little they had in their savings to make sure locals were fed. Joyce was the volunteer director of the food bank for 40 years until her passing in January, 2025, and did not accept a single penny for her tireless work. In addition to the food bank, Joyce was an active member of Saint Paul Catholic Church, and has served in every capacity. Her faith guided all of her acts of service.

To hear from Joyce herself about her work with the Jackson County Food Bank, click here.

Every person who knew Joyce had a better life because of her. She always has a kind word, a smile, and endless optimism to share. Joyce's presence was the light in a dark room, and her voice was one of comfort and familiarity in any situation. She always sought out the best in every person she knew. Her nine children and over 30 grandchildren and great-grandchildren have known nothing but love, care, and comfort from Joyce. Her legacy will inspire charity and kindness in many generations to come.

By donating to this GoFundMe, you will be directly supporting the Jackson County Food Bank. Joyce would want nothing more than to continue to see acts of service done in her name. Please consider donating any amount possible in Joyce's name to honor her memory.