Elbert Boyce 

Life Reflection 

“Wait on the Lord, Be of good courage and He shall strengthen thine heart…” 

Psalms 24:14 

Elbert Boyce, who was known to many of his family and friends as “Tubby” is at peace with God and rejoicing in his heavenly home. Tubby passed away at Christian Northeast Hospital 3 days before his 81st birthday on November 5th, 2023 at 6:39 a.m. 

Elbert, “Tubby” was born in Popular Bluff, Missouri on November 8, 1942. He was 80 years young when God called him home to glory. He is preceded by his lovely Mother Corneles Boyce (Johnson) & Father Charlie Boyce. He was also preceded in death by his ex–wife Josie Brison (Boyce); brothers Harold (Joe), John Boyce and sister, Teacora Holiday, and step–son Emmett Brison. 

Elbert grew up in St. Louis, MO. He was educated in the Catholic School System, through the Archdiocese of Greater St. Louis. Tubby dropped out of high school in the 10th grade to join the United States Army in 1962. He served in the Army for 22 years as an air defense specialist stationed in Germany. After returning home from Germany, he met and married Josie Brison on the cold day of New Year’s Eve, December 31, 1964. To that union 2 wonderful children were born, Akita and Gregory Boyce Tubby also had a lifelong companion of over 30 years, Barbara Jean Simmons. 

Elbert professed and accepted Christ as his Savior with profound faith and devotion at an early age. He served as an altar boy at St. Henry’s Catholic Church in South St. Louis. Tubby took his role as an altar boy seriously, he often showed up early to prepare for Sunday Service and assisted with delivering food baskets to members of the congregation. Prior to his passing; Tubby received his last communion where he obtained the blood and body of Christ and prayed the 23rd Psalms. Although, he did not have a church home, his faith did not waiver and remained strong until his untimely death. 

Elbert spent the majority of his adult life employed as a supervisor in the Forestry Department of St. Louis City. He retired from his supervisory role after 25 years of employment. As a Forestry Supervisor, he was responsible for ensuring vacant lots and parks were manicured. He was in charge of an 8-12 man crew. According to Tubby, he enjoyed his job as a supervisor because “I like telling people what to do and giving orders:” 

Elbert considered himself to be an introvert and home body. He enjoyed “being one with self’‘. His favorite pastime activities were watching western and cowboy movies (old and new), crime shows, and NFL football games on T.V. Tubby was a strong, independent, and stubborn man, who lived Life on Life terms. 

Elbert leaves to cherish his everlasting memories; daughter Akita (Archie); son Gregory (Paula)‘; lifelong companion Barbara Jean; grand–children; Gregory Jr., Brandon, Gabriel, Janae, Giarra, & Janiece. A host of step–children; great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Tubby will truly be missed.