Mary Joyce Frances Smith

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Joyce Frances Smith, known as Joyce, on April 29, 2024 at the age of 92.  Surrounded by her family, she was called to be with the Lord and to be reunited with the many family members who have gone before her.  

She will lovingly be remembered by her daughter Darlene (Robert) Flood from Kamloops, BC, son Brian (Cheryl) Smith from Deep River, ON, grandchildren Tim (Heather) Rowe, Steve Rowe, Matthew Flood, Kylie Smith and Liam Flood , great grandchildren Sibley and Tora Rowe, brother-in-law Bud (Bev) Smith, sister-in-law Aideen McKenna, nephews Colin (Ryan Voutilainen) McKenna, Charles (Betty Anne) Grey and numerous other nieces and nephews.  She will also be dearly missed by her close friend Joyce Aberdeen.

Joyce was predeceased by her husband Alexander Smith, parents Leonard and Eva McKenna, brother Ronald McKenna, sisters Lenore Hedgecoe and Shirley Wakefield, daughter Heather Rowe, in-laws Alexander and Elsie Smith, sister-in-law Doris Gordon and brother-in-law Richard Smith.  

Joyce was born on November 29, 1931 in Montreal, Quebec.  She married Alexander Smith in 1963.  They had two children Darlene and Brian and she was a step mother to Heather.  In 1976 they moved the family from Montreal to Thunder Bay, Ontario.  She worked various jobs including a cashier at a local corner store and as an employee with Eaton’s department store.  She remained at Eaton’s until her retirement.  In 2005 she moved to Kamloops, BC with her daughter Darlene, son in-law Robert and their family. 

Joyce’s greatest joy was her family.  She cherished the time spent with family and never hesitated to tell us how much she loved us.  She was so proud of her children and grandchildren.  Her other interests included gardening, bingo, crossword puzzles (she was a whiz at any kind of word puzzle) and crafting.  Her favourite time of the year was Christmas and she thoroughly enjoyed decorating for the holidays.  

Despite her numerous health challenges over the years, Joyce persevered and tried to live life as best she could.  She was a remarkably resilient person who exhibited so much strength and courage.  Often surprising the doctors, she would rally and recover.  Although her family will miss her terribly, there is a sense of peace knowing she is no longer suffering.

The family would like to thank the nurses and care aides at Pine Grove Seniors Community, especially Jenna and Jenni, for taking such good care of her.  A thank you also to Dr. Howie for managing her care for the past year.

A private graveside service will be held in Thunder Bay during the summer.

You will be dearly missed Mom.  Love you forever.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to your favorite charity would be preferred.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-554-2324

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: