Anna Joyce passed away peacefully aged 92, at OTMH, surrounded by the family she loved. Even in her final days, she modeled the courage and faith she showed us all her life.

Anna was predeceased by her husband of 68 years Jim, beloved grandson Eric, father Harry, mother Helen, and brother Ted. Anna’s earthly legacy includes five children Stephen (Barb), Peter (Nancy), Karen (Lynda), Kevin (Sarah) and Brian (Lynn) along with 13 grandchildren, Megan (Jeff), Michael (Michelle), Sam (Adam), Eric (Kelly), Will (Samantha), Lesley, Ryan (Jennifer), Jamie (Chantal), Lacey (James), Katy (Alex), Erin (Tom), Carleigh, Kyle (Sarah), and 18 great-grandchildren.

She was born and raised in East Oakville, but found love in Bronte with her Jimmy. They lived in several places in Bronte and Oakville, and with each move mom was what could be called a ‘reluctant mover.’ She filled every new home with love, joy, tchotchkes and photographs of her family.

Mom raised five kids, managed the house, worked part-time, volunteered and all the while keeping us grounded in the belief that faith, care and love will carry the day. Every outing was an adventure when we were young. We have great memories of camping trips, parties and multi-family get-togethers.

Mom loved a good garage sale, flea market or trip to any dollar store. She was thrifty but generous. Often gifts would end up unexpectedly on our front porches, and were greatly appreciated.

Dad and mom spent many happy summers in Grand Bend and have many friends and fond memories from their time there. Mom loved the water, whether it was a lake or pool, she could be found floating effortlessly and soaking up the sun.

Never one to sit idle, mom always had a knitting project on the go. Her grandchildren looked forward to receiving her knitted slippers each Christmas. All her grands, great-grands and many, many friends received cherished knitted blankets in colours selected just for them. Mom knit scarves for the Kerr Street Outreach Ministry right up until her passing.

Mom’s greatest gift was her ability to make anyone feel welcome no matter the situation. She knew what to say, and what to do. She was accepting and welcoming of everyone.

Mom’s final year was a quiet one, but still she remained the hub of family information. Everything flowed through her. She kept track of birthdays, anniversaries and special events. We would all come away from a visit with her up-to-date on all the activities of our large extended family. Mom loved being a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She took care of us all. She led by example with love and compassion and we were all blessed to have had her in our lives.

We would like to express our gratitude to the staff at Amica Bronte Harbour as well as the nurses, doctors and PSWs of Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital for their compassionate care during mum’s final month while on the complex care ward.

Per mom’s wishes, a private interment will take place at St. Jude’s Cemetery where she will rest with her husband, Jim. In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed to Walton Memorial United Church or to a charity of your choice.