[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 4 (Wednesday, January 7, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H109]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     RECOGNIZING JOYCE REID-COLEMAN

  (Mrs. Hayes of Connecticut was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mrs. HAYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Joyce 
Reid-Coleman, who passed away on December 15 after a courageous battle 
with cancer.
  Poochie, as she was affectionately known, was beloved by the 
community. After overcoming many challenges in life, she decided to 
channel all of her energy to giving back.
  While employed at the Siemon Company, she spearheaded many annual 
events and programs for employees, including the Haunted Cafe for the 
children of employees, a Thanksgiving feast, and a Christmas 
extravaganza.
  Joyce created Big, Bold and Beautiful Productions to expand her 
service work to the Waterbury community. As an entrepreneur, she opened 
New York Handbags Plus Dresses in downtown Waterbury. Through her 
organization, Joyce provided the means to send children to prom. She 
worked closely with all of the high schools to select students to 
receive services. These services included gowns, tuxedos, shoes, 
haircuts, hairstyling, manicures, pedicures, all accessories, flowers, 
pictures, and even transportation.
  Her love for children inspired her to create The Back to School Kids 
Day, an all-day event providing food, games, activities, and free 
haircuts for all of the children.
  Her love for her community was unprecedented. During the holiday 
season, her organization would provide Thanksgiving dinner to the 
homeless and those in need, toys for children, and blankets for the 
sick and shut in. Even as she was in hospice, she hosted a large 
Thanksgiving dinner this last Thanksgiving.
  Joyce dedicated her life to God and was a faithful servant at Grace 
Baptist Church in Waterbury, Connecticut. Her generous, giving, and 
loving spirit made her a unique blessing to so many. Her work was 
celebrated in the city of Waterbury and throughout the State of 
Connecticut.
  To say that her living spirit will be missed by all who knew her is 
an understatement. I pray for her husband, Gene, and the family. Joyce 
will surely be missed. May Poochie rest well. She has earned it.

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