It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Joyce Elizabeth Johnston nee McMullen, passed away suddenly on Sunday, November 29, 2020 at the age of 76. She is survived by her loving husband Robert Saunders, daughter Kim Beaune, son-in-law Richard Beaune and step-son Shawn Saunders (Paula). She was “Second Mom” to Tamara, Antoinette and Barb (Dean) and “Grandma Joyce” to Jolisa, Niki, Presley and Paris and “Great-Grandma” to Aura and Benny. She will be missed by numerous cousins, extended family and close family friends. She is predeceased by her mother Ruby McMullen and father Louis McMullen and her “Sister of the Heart” Beverly Merrett

Joyce had a strong work ethic, earning her certificate as a hairdresser in 1962 and then transitioning to over 50 years as a bookkeeper, office manager and all around Girl Friday. She will be remembered by colleagues and customers at Satellite Mechanical, Blue Bar Mechanical, Mitchell & Jewell, and Servus Credit Union, where she worked into her 70s.

To all that knew Joyce, she was a fierce friend and confidant. Many found a loving refuge around her kitchen table or, as many of her daughter’s friends can attest, at the foot of her bed in the middle of the night. She opened her door to anyone and everyone, and was always ready with a cup of coffee, a big hug and a bit of stern advice.

She was known for cooking enough food for an army and being darn good at it. There was always room for one more at her dinner table and years into adulthood, kids that grew up around her would walk in the door and say “Mom…do you have any baking?”. She loved it!

Joyce had a deep love for animals and just like the kids she took in, there wasn’t a stray animal that she refused at her door. She could talk about her fur babies for hours and knew all the neighbourhood animals by name. We are comforted by the belief that the four legged family members who have crossed the rainbow bridge before her, are there to welcome her. Squeak and Goldie, her current babies, are certainly missing her but they are doing a great job of consoling us.

Our hearts are broken, but we are grateful for the kindness and care shown to us and to Joyce by the amazing nursing staff at Red Deer Regional Hospital ICU.

In light of her love for animals, and especially strays, we are requesting that in lieu of flowers, people may honour Joyce’s memory by making a donation to Alberta SPCA or Whisker Rescue Red Deer. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements in care of:

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer),

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER.

• Date : 2020-12-08
• Location : www.ParklandFuneralHome.com - Red Deer