Joyce Irene Gill

Joyce Irene Gill made the world a better place simply by being in it; and even her passing on October 12, 2026 won’t stop her, thanks to the memories she leaves behind as a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, great-aunt, neighbour and friend.

Cremation has taken place and the inurnment will be at Grand Bend Cemetery in Grand Bend, Ontario. Survived by Joseph, her husband of 49 years; her children Jason and Jackelyn; her sisters Joan, May and Ruth; her brothers Alan and Ray; along with innumerable nieces, nephews and cousins, of the standard and great- varieties.

Growing up in Grand Valley, Ontario and eventually settling in London, Ontario, Joyce was living proof that you can take the girl out of the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the girl. She spent many sunny afternoons tending to her begonias and black-eyed Susans. Rain, shine or snow, she kept the backyard birds and critters well fed with sunflower seeds. Her hand-picked homemade strawberry jam made many tastebuds happy each year. No one could miss her signature style, Holstein cow print.

The quiet moments she carved out in a busy household brought her the most joy, whether laying down with her copy of Jane Eyre, piecing together an impossible jigsaw puzzle, cracking the daily word jumble, or savouring a moment with a humble peanut butter and honey sandwich.

Quiet days didn’t stop Joyce from enjoying life’s greatest adventures. She married Joe in 1977, and with him raised two children into arguably successful adults. She meticulously chronicled her travels through the Caribbean, Arctic, Mediterranean, Baltics and beyond. There wasn’t a cent that slipped past her notice over 20 years of bookkeeping in the family business.

No matter the circumstances, Joyce always found the bright side and an unexpected joke, which is how her family chooses to remember and celebrate her love and light. All those wishing to join in are invited to attend Joyce’s celebration of life on November 16 at 11:00 a.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church, 2 Water Street in Grand Valley, Ontario. Lunch will be held after a short service.

Donations in Joyce’s memory are welcome at the London Health Sciences Foundation, in thanks for the care she received through her mighty battles and final peaceful moments.