Obituary of Joyce McKay

It is with love and gratitude that we announce the passing of Joyce McKay (née Murray), daughter of Vernon and Roberta Murray of Avonton, Ontario, who peacefully left us at the remarkable age of 97.

Joyce was predeceased by her beloved husband, Tom McKay, and their cherished children Leita Stevens (Donald), Dorothy Greason, Murray McKay, and Bonnie McKay. She was also predeceased by her sister Louise Walkom (nee Murray) and granddaughters Sherry Daum (Dan) and Cindy Brown.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren Tracey Greason, Sheila Cameron (Marc), and Sandy Shackleton (Scott), and her great-grandchildren Brock and Lily Daum; Lauren and Julia Cameron, Stacey and Nolan Shackleton and Jackson, Rachel, and Sasha Brown and her great great grandchildren Watsi’tsyané:ka and Sawyor Brown.

Joyce and Tom built a wonderful life together on their family farm (Darview Registered Holsteins) on the Mitchell road, purchased from Harold McKay via a veterans land act.  Joyce found great joy in watching horses and attending horse shows, and she loved nothing more than dancing with Tom, sharing many happy moments together on and off the dance floor. She was also a devoted Toronto Blue Jays fan and rarely missed a game.

She was a loving and caring presence in the lives of her sister’s children Susan, Jayne and Sara and Tom’s many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart. Her warmth extended far beyond her immediate family, and she nurtured deep bonds across generations.

Joyce’s life was one of kindness, strength, and community spirit. She was a proud and active member of the Motherwell Women’s Institute where she devoted countless hours to supporting her community and building lasting friendships.

Her generous spirit, quick wit, and unwavering devotion to family will be remembered always by those who were blessed to know her.

A private family service will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joyce’s memory to the Cystic Fibrosis Society, the Alzheimer Society, or the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation.