Obituary of John Joyce

John “Jack” Joyce

Corner Brook, NL

September 17, 1939 - September 17, 2023

With deep sorrow and the heaviest of hearts our family announces the passing of John “Jack” Joyce after a long battle with dementia. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at the Western Health Palliative Care Unit in Corner Brook, on his 84th birthday. 

Jack will be dearly missed by his loving and devoted wife of 56 years, Clara nee Griffin; his four beloved sons: John (Sandy) Joyce, Todd (Janet) Joyce, Coiley Joyce, Steven Joyce (Trudy Ruth); his two cherished daughters: Sherry Ann Chung (Tim) and Dolly Joyce (Blain Ford).  Proud grandfather of five precious grandchildren; Ethyn Hewlin, Emily Joyce, Evan Chung, Grace Joyce and Jack Joyce.  

Left to mourn are his brothers and sisters-in-law: Mary Jo Perrett (Bill), Elizabeth Maxwell (Garry), Dan Griffin, Veronica Payne (Allan Simms), Bernard (Sharon) Griffin, Sheila Best, Mike Griffin (Joan Chafe), Jim Griffin, Paul (Brenda) Griffin, Peggy Joyce (Jerry Parsons) and Max Russell. Jack will also be missed dearly by his numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; especially his nephews George Joyce and Paul Joyce; his cousin Angela Joyce; friends Kathleen Carey & Dennis Mills and great neighbour Junior Daye.

He was predeceased by his father, George Joyce - 1955, his mother, Sarah “Doll” Joyce (nee Gregory) - 1975; father in-law, John “Jack” Griffin - 1973, his mother in-law, Nora Griffin - 2017; brothers, sisters, and in-laws: baby Jimmy, baby Geraldine, George Joyce, Grace Oxford (Raymond), Fletcher (Mabel) Joyce, Sarah Joyce, Mary Russell, Agatha Poole (Norm), Augustus Payne, Cleve Best and  Kim Griffin. Also his longtime friend Pat Kearney.

Jack was a hard worker from a very young age.  He was a member of LiUNA Local 1208 where he made lifetime friends through various projects. He was a man of great faith and until his health declined, he never missed a weekly mass. He took immense pride in his family, acknowledged their accomplishments no matter how big or small.  Jack’s quick wit, humour and storytelling were a constant source of laughter at many celebrations and gatherings. There wasn’t a party that didn’t involve his talent of accordion playing. Self taught from a young age he played for many get togethers and local fundraisers. He could always be counted on for some toe tapping music.

The family would like to thank Dr. Lethbridge and Dr. Butt. Extended gratitude to the nursing staff of 3A of Western Memorial Regional Hospital and to the compassionate team at Western Health Palliative Care Unit for the exceptional care and providing solace during his final days. 

Visitation will take place from Fillatre’s Funeral Home, 218 Curling Street on Friday, September 22 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm.  A funeral mass of Christian burial        will be held on Saturday, September 23 at 1pm at Sacred Heart Church officiated by Father Lee Lainey. Interment at Mt. Patricia Cemetery will follow. As expressions of sympathy, flowers will be graciously accepted and/or donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

The funeral service will be live streamed, for those who wish to view please follow the link https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=4233fb50-eb58-419e-a712-84839791fc92