Obituary of Joyce (Joy) Hazel Williams
Joyce (Joy) Hazel Williams - April 29, 1928 – January 30, 2019
Joy passed away peacefully at her home with family at her side on January 30th. Since her severe stroke nearly eight years ago, she lived a life beyond expectation with her strength, character, and mischievous smile shining through.
She was visited by many friends in her final days. Mareth, her great-niece, was with her when she took her last breath. Lisa, Jacqui and Rosamund have been her constant companions over recent years.
Joy was born in Norwich, England, and is survived by her sister Paddy (the late Bob) in the US. She was a beloved aunt to their children Beverly, Steve and Kaki. She was predeceased by her brother Ken (the late Betty) and was also a beloved aunt to their children Chris, Bryan, Gail and Anne. Joy is also survived by many great nieces and nephews in the US and UK who visited her often.
Joy trained as a nurse in London and moved to Canada for a two year exchange but liked it so much she took up post at Ridley College, in St. Catharines, as the residency nurse. After leaving Ridley College, Joy became a nurse at St. Catharines General Hospital and then moved to Hotel Dieu until she retired. Joy’s beloved home in St. Catharines was the scene of many parties, as well as her beautiful gardens which she loved to share with friends.
In 2011, she suffered a severe stroke which left her severely handicapped in terms of mobility and communication. Joy’s last years were spent at Chartwell Niagara Residences in Niagara-On-The-Lake, who took wonderful care of her.
Always part of the community and in appreciation of her close friendship with Janet and (the late) Peter Partridge, she made a major donation to the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre and the “Joy Williams Lobby” is named in honour of her donation.
The Family would like to say Thank You from the bottom of our hearts to all who cared, loved, and visited Joy over the years. It was comforting to know she had so many wonderful people looking after her as her family couldn’t always physically be here with her.
Cremation has taken place and funeral arrangements are entrusted to the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines. A Celebration of Joy’s life will take place on Sunday, June 9 at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mark’s Church, 41 Byron St., Niagara-on-the-Lake. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Partridge Gilliam Fund at the Niagara Community Foundation. This fund supports local children’s charities.