I am sitting here reading Joyce’s Obituary with tears as well as a smile.

I had to take my mom for eye surgery on Macleod Trail yesterday and rather than sit in my car waiting I thought I’d drive by our old houses on 46th Ave to see how it was standing. I noticed a builders sign on Joyce’s lawn, so drove around the block to take a closer look. I don’t know why I expected to see her out on her lawn tending to her flowers but I did. Last time we spoke she remarked on her new car she treated herself to for her 90th. I had a sinking feeling she was no longer there so I phoned her. I never forgot her number. No longer in service I googled her and this beautiful photo appeared along with her obituary.

I sat in my car and cried.

I have nothing but fond wonderful memories of Joyce. We were neighbors for almost 30 years and met through our crazy Siamese cats. Many a night I’d grab a bottle of wine tell my husband Mike I was popping by Joyce’s for a glass of wine only to return four hours later. Hockey games were usually on or the news while we shared 100’s of our favorite novels. She watched my children grow and always kept their Xmas pictures in her albums. I loved everything about her. She spoke her mind knew her boundaries and did it all with grace and humor.

She was one of the strongest woman I have ever met.

Her life wasn’t easy, she suffered so much loss over the years, however never complained and talked always about her nieces and her close friends with happiness… she was so grateful with what she did have.

Joyce you will always have a special place in my heart, and I am so glad we were neighbors and friends. You were the best neighbor in the world and the only other person that had a key to our home.

My heart goes out to Pamela and Sarah who I feel I’ve met, with all of Joyce’s praises to you both throughout the years.

I hope your families can find some comfort and peace with all the memories and the family that surrounds you.

Warmest condolences

Debbie, Mike, Trevor and Lauren