Marjorie Joyce Southart (Joy)
On August 20th, 2023, our beloved mother peacefully passed away at the remarkable age of 96, reuniting with our father in Heaven. We are incredibly grateful to have had our mother with us for so many years, and her presence will be deeply missed.
Born in St. Lambert, Quebec in 1927, mom was raised in a home filled with love by her parents, Pearl and Alfred Sears, alongside her two sisters. Growing up during the challenging times of the Great Depression, mom often reminisced about the hardships she and her family endured and how they persevered through those difficult years.
In 1949, mom tied the knot with our father, Lloyd. They shared a passion for rowing and spent memorable times together at the Excel Rowing Club, where they also formed lifelong friendships. Looking back at mom’s life, we treasure the pictures of her and dad dancing on stage during talent shows at the Excel – such cherished memories.
The true joy of mom’s life came with the arrival of her three daughters. In 1959, Brenda, the miracle baby, was born, followed by the energetic arrival of Lisa in 1961, and the youngest, Kari, in 1964. Our family felt complete, and mom took immense pride in us. We were her greatest treasures, and she constantly expressed her love and admiration for us.
As a devoted mother, mom filled our home with love and laughter. Her days were filled with creating delicious meals for family and friends on special occasions, knitting beautiful sweaters, crafting intricate rugs, and sewing clothes – she even designed and sewed her own wedding dress. Our house truly became a place of warmth and happiness.
In 1977, dad’s work led us to Vancouver, a significant move for our family. Mom dearly missed her friends and family back home in Quebec, but she embraced the adventure and created a vibrant life for us in the West. We formed new friendships and cherished every moment together.
Mom’s life reached new heights of fulfillment with the arrival of her grandchildren. Cory, Tabatha, Bradley, and Lacee brought immense joy to her heart. And with the next generation, her great-grandchildren Cadence, Brody, Noah, Aslynn, and baby Thorsten, her happiness continued to grow.
Leaving behind a legacy of love, mom is survived by her three adoring daughters, Brenda (Danny), Lisa (Kevin), and Kari (Bob), as well as her four grandchildren and five precious great-grandchildren. In addition, her beloved cat CharLee, who resides with Brenda, will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Mom will always be remembered for her warm and welcoming nature towards anyone who entered her home. Her caring and nurturing personality touched the lives of all who knew her. Although we are heartbroken at the loss of our dear mother, we find solace in the fact that her spirit will live on within us. Forever loved and deeply missed, our mother will hold a special place in our hearts.