Joyce (Higginson) Roberts passed away peacefully on May 10, 2024 after almost 97 years of a truly wonderful life. She is survived by her precious family: son Ian, daughter Lynne (Joe), grandsons Brandon (Annika) and Devon (Krysta), niece Susan and nephew Neil (Janine). She was predeceased by the love of her life, Harold - Hal, her sister Doris, and her brother-in-law, Jack.
Joyce was born in Lancaster, England, where she spent her early years going to school, orthopedic nursing during WWII, then attending St. Katharines College in Liverpool. Upon completion, Joyce taught grades 1 and 2 at Ashton Underline. Her mom, Nora, introduced her to a nice young man named Hal on the Ribble bus travelling back and forth to work. Joyce had already accepted a year teaching exchange position in Toronto, Canada, arrived in August 1952, and stayed. Hal found her in Canada, ending up on her cousin's doorstep three days after she arrived. They married in Dorval, Quebec, in August 1953, eventually settling in Ottawa to raise their family. They celebrated a loving marriage of 64 years up until Hal's passing in 2018.
Joyce moved west to be closer to family after Hal's passing. Joyce taught aquacise, painting, swimming, loved gardening, knitting, the lake, music, sewing, lipstick, and travelling the world with Hal ... then she painted it. We will cherish her life, her memory, her paintings, and her wonderful sense of humour forever. She was our last one ...
In closing, Joyce only wanted a simple cremation and to be reunited with her precious Hal at Beechwood, a final chapter in their love story. A special thank you to Kerri, Marianne, Sharan, Tammy, and the compassionate caregivers at Airdrie Care Community, all of whom Joyce was so truly grateful for. RIP.