Joy died in Hospice after a brief illness. She leaves behind her daughters, Lora-Beth and Arleigh, and her beloved grandchildren Jessica (Jim), Eva, and Evan (Lauren). Joy was predeceased by her brothers Arthur and Bill, her sons David and John, and her husband Rod.
Born Nina Joy Cooke in Edmonton post-World War One, Joy lived through the depression, married at the end of World War Two, and had four children in the baby boom that followed. She moved to Vancouver in 1941 and to Victoria in 1960.
Joy was a wonderful homemaker; she took great pleasure in producing nice things for her family and friends. She created beautiful clothes and crafts, delicious food, and a warm and inviting home and garden. These skills were used to help others as well, as she taught courses through community education. Joy was also active in local politics and community development.
Joy viewed life through the lens of a poet. She wrote prolifically all her life – poems, short stories, columns, and magazine articles. She was also an accomplished photographer.
A warm, kind, and generous person, Joy, will be greatly missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2018 from 1:30 – 4 pm at the Pender Ballroom in the Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville Street.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Victoria Hospice would be much appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
22 Responses
LB and family… will always remember your Mom for her wonderful stories and the visits we had with her over our way and your way.. always a smile and loved how she embraced life.. hugs to all David and Laurie xox
Arleigh, We were very sorry to learn that your mother has passed away. It was lovely to re-connect with her at Douglas House, however briefly, and that brought back many lovely memories at your family home.
Our sincere condolences to the entire family.
We were so sorry to read that your Mom passed away. She was an amazing lady and we enjoyed having her as our neighbor for so many years. We still have her book of poetry in our bookcase. Please accept our condolences for your families loss.
Dear Arleigh, My condolences to you & your family. I remember meeting your mother on a few occasions when she visited you at the college, she was always so gracious. From what you have told me about her, and from reading her obituary, you have no doubt inherited your mother’s many creative talents, zest for life, sense of humor, and graciousness. May the fond memories you have of her carry you through this difficult time. Thinking of you! Donna
Or sincerest condolences to all members of Joy’s family. She was
a good friend.
Our sincerest condolences to the members of Joy’s family. Joy was a
talented and great lady.
I remember Joy’s smile, upliftedness and courage. She was a truly warm and compassionate lady. I was always so happy to see her – a model of her generation; wise, caring, poetic and humorous. A true “salt of the earth “person so rare nowadays. I know she will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences.
My deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy go out to you Jess, Eva, Evan, LB and Arleigh. I had the honour of knowing Joy almost my entire life. I’ll always remember the cute little matching outfits Nan would sew for us as kids, and the quilt she made for my baby shower. She was a caring, generous, kind and loving lady, an inspiration! May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead.
You were all very blessed to have each other. May your memories of your mother bring you smiles and comfort in the midst of your sadness.
Thinking of you Lora-Beth, Arleigh and families.
Ron and I really enjoyed meeting your Mom on various occasions.
She was a wonderful, talented lady.
And such an inspiration, her positive attitude made others around her happy.
She will be greatly missed by all.
Love Sandy.