February 24, 1947 - May 12, 2024
In loving memory ~
With much love, a tearful goodbye was said with Joyce's sudden passing on Mother's Day, 12th of May 2024. She is survived by her husband Luke and family in the USA and Trinidad.
Joyce on her own bravely immigrated to Canada from Trinidad as a young woman. She arrived on the prairies in sandals and a summer dress during a Spring blizzard. A kind stewardess gave her a winter coat and her adventure began.
She was raised in a Hindu home but felt compelled to find out who God was. She found him in a real and personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and this was echoed in a supportive Christian community. She established herself working in the Calgary oil patch, but her family in Trinidad despaired her finding a husband as she had become a "professional" woman. Classy woman that she was, she intimidated most guys, and although she had been proposed to a number of times, a country boy in a polyester suit and cowboy boots won his way into her heart. For the past 37-plus years they deeply and truly had a "two shall become one" love and friendship.
Joyce was a woman who never skirted issues, spoke the truth, was black and white, full of love, compassion, common sense, wisdom, and intelligence, a rare and precious combination. Joyce although a woman of color, said she had never experienced discrimination. On the contrary, Canadians went out of their way to help her.
She loved her gardens, both flowers and produce, the greenhouse was her happy place. Her food was superb, a fusion of cultures and tastes from around the world.
Joyce would have wanted those who read the obituaries to tell those close to you "I love you" many times. Check your heart and choose to forgive those who have hurt you. Release others and you release yourself.
Romans 8:38, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Joyce now has every tear wiped from her eyes. There is no more death, mourning, crying, or pain, for she is with her heavenly Father in celebration.
Thank you, family, in Trinidad for your love and prayers and hosting a "wake" in Joyce's honor. Thank you to friends and our church community for standing with us in so many ways.
Thank you to our international kids from around the world. Thank you Dr. Davyduke, VIHA Community Care, Red Cross, and the nurses with 'palliative care' for your encouragement, compassion, empathy, and hugs.
A memorial gathering will be held at Christian Fellowship Church in Qualicum Beach beginning at 2:00 PM on June 2nd. Any stories to be shared will be appreciated.
Service Details
2:00 PM