Joyce Verena Slue

Joyce Verena Bailey Slue was born August 2, 1932, in the parish of Saint Catherine, Jamaica, West Indies, to Ethel Angus and Ferdinand Bailey. She began her early education at Mount Nebo Primary School in Guys Hill, Saint Catherine. Tragically, her mother passed away when Joyce was still a young child. She was lovingly raised by her father and grandmother, alongside her sister and brothers. Following her education at Mount Nebo Primary, Joyce entered the workforce at a time when higher education was not commonly pursued by women in Jamaica. She held several jobs before relocating to Kingston to live with her aunt. It was there she met Gladston Peart, with whom she had her first son, Jahmal. Though their paths eventually diverged, Joyce remained steadfast in her dedication to building a future for her family. In time, Joyce met Donald Slue, a charismatic entertainer at Jamaica’s Tower Isle Resort. Their connection blossomed into love, and the two were married. Together, they had four children—Carlene, Courtney, Carson, and Norris—and later opened their hearts and home to Bobby, a child they lovingly took into guardianship. In 1965, Joyce migrated to the United States in search of greater opportunities. By 1968, she had successfully reunited her entire family in Brooklyn, New York, where they began a new chapter together. Determined to make the most of her new beginning, Joyce pursued her education, earning her GED and later achieving an associate’s degree from Essex County College in May 1981. She continued her studies in social work at Seton Hall University—a testament to her lifelong passion for helping others. Joyce began working at Beth Israel Medical Center, where she built a career spanning nearly 30 years. Admired by her colleagues and beloved by her patients, she served with compassion, grace, and integrity. Her perseverance and dedication culminated in one of her proudest personal milestones—purchasing her first home in Newark, New Jersey. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. Joyce became an active and beloved member of the Church of the First Born Miracle Temple in New Jersey, where she was affectionately known as “Mother Slue.” Under the spiritual leadership of Bishop Ermine Stewart and later Pastor Andrew Gordon and Bishop Leo McDonald (Pastor Mac), she served faithfully as a church mother and missionary. Though she supported her sister, Pastor Ina Solomon, in founding Full Truth Ministries, she remained deeply connected to Miracle Temple Ministries. Mother Slue was known for her radiant hospitality and servant’s heart. Her home was a haven for visiting pastors, evangelists, and family. She joyfully organized annual church outings—memorable trips to Dutch Country, Pennsylvania, and the Sight & Sound Theatres that inspired spiritual growth and fellowship. A devoted prayer warrior, she received calls for prayer from around the globe—Africa, the Caribbean, the UK, and beyond. Her influence spanned continents, but her love always felt deeply personal. After retirement, Joyce relocated to Altamonte Springs, Florida, where she embraced peace, rest, and reflection in her final years. Even in rest, her heart remained open— offering love, wisdom, and support to all who came her way. Joyce Verena Slue leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, tireless perseverance, and boundless love. She was a mother not only to her children, but to countless others who found comfort, counsel, and prayer in her presence. Her life was a living testament to the scripture she held dear: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Mother Slue was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Slue; son, Carson Slue; daughter, Carlene Slue; father, Ferdinand Bailey; mother, Ethel Angus; Brothers, Herman Bailey and Solomon Lindsay; sister, Ina Solomon; Grandsons, Jermaine Peart and Hezekiah Brown; and great-grandson, Daniel Slue. Left to cherish her memories are her loving children: sons, Jahmal Peart (wife, Lesline) of Bloomfield, New Jersey, Bobby Cunningham (wife, Mirelys) of Royal Palm Beach, Florida, Courtney Slue of Irvington, New Jersey, and Norris Slue of Altamonte Springs, Florida; 29 Grandchildren, 50 Great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other loving relatives and friends.

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Joyce Verena Slue

August 2, 1932 - March 26, 2025