Joyce Evelyn ,Bennie
June 22, 1921-September 13, 2013
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Joyce Bennie who went peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on September 13, 2013 at Mount St. Mary in Victoria.
Joyce was 92 years old when she passed away and she lived life to its fullest. She always had a smile on her face and a kind word for others. She danced through her life with joy, compassion, and a positive, warm, loving attitude towards her family and those around her. Joyce lived her life fully “in the present” not dwelling on the past or looking towards the future; she was there with you, smiling with you, beside you when you needed her. Joyce gave so much of herself; she was president of the Campbell River Hospital Auxiliary from 1978-1980, secretary to the provincial president in 1982, then from 1987-1997 she was the auxiliary appointee to the Hospital Board of Trustees. Joyce also volunteered for many years in the thrift shop.
Joyce golfed regularly until she was 85 and only stopped because she wanted to dance five nights a week, play cards in the afternoon and take trips with Ray. She never seemed tired and was always upbeat. Those who knew her were blessed. She taught us how to love, how to live in the moment, how to care for others.
“When you love someone your whole life, you can be sure their love surrounds you still.” Joyce’s love will surround us all and comfort us with our memories of her. Even in our sadness, we need to smile when we think of her dancing, loving, and caring for all of those around her.
Joyce is survived by her loving partner Ray, daughter Linda (Bindon), grandchildren Chantelle and Daniel (Laura), great-grandchildren Ryder and Koa, sister Jess, sisters-in-laws: Mary, Irene and Julie, and many nieces and nephews. Joyce is predeceased by her parents Dorothy and Albert, her son Ed, husband Chuck, sister Margaret (Bill), brother David, brothers-in-law: Bill, Bob, and Earl and sister-in-law Jan.
Rest in peace Joyce. Your kindness, patience, amazing spirit and love of life will be with us forever.
A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held in Victoria on October 26th at 2 pm at the chapel of St. Michaels University School, 3400 Richmond Road. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joyce’s name to Mount St. Mary Foundation in Victoria. www.msmfoundation.ca or to Campbell River Hospital Auxiliary, 375 - 2nd Ave, Campbell River, BC, V9W 3V1 would be appreciated. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com
McCall’s of Victoria, BC (1-800-870-4210)