JOYCE ELIZABETH McNAY

April 28, 2025

Joyce Elizabeth McNay, formerly of Lucknow, died April 28, 2025, at the age of 84. Survived by her dear friend, Peter Daniel; sisters, Eleanor Garbutt and Helen (Terry) Baker; sister-in-law, Jackie McNay; brothers-in-law, Lionel Harvey and Charles Buck. Also survived by her nephews, Peter and Craig McNay, and Kyle Garbutt; nieces Heather (Cal) Hultrgren, Amber (Steven) Layden, Kristen (Jay) Goodwin, Kendra McNay and Erin (Kevin Pattison) McNay; six great-nieces and one great-nephew. Predeceased by her loving parents, W. Kelso McNay and Mary A.P. (Watson) McNay; twin sister, M. Elaine Harvey; sister, Evelyn Jean Buck; brother, Beverley McNay; and brother-in-law, Douglas Garbutt. Joyce was born in Ashfield Township, near Lucknow. In her teen years, she excelled in sports at Lucknow High School, played with the “Lucknow Scotties” softball team, sang in the Lucknow United Church choir, and played piano duets with her twin sister at social events. In 4-H, Joyce achieved provincial honours. After attending Stratford Teachers’ College, Joyce taught in Underwood, Bruce County, and Howick Central in Huron County, before moving to Waterloo County to teach elementary students and complete her B.A. at Wilfrid Laurier University. Volunteering was very important. Joyce canvassed many years for the Kidney Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society and the Arthritis Society. Following retirement, she volunteered at the Grand River Hospital, sang and played the bells with the Zion United Church choir in Kitchener. She also enjoyed watching the Toronto Blue Jays and was big fan. Joyce was a very humble person who believed, “If teachers and parents worked together there would be no problems in the school or home.” Cremation has taken place, with interment in South Kinloss Cemetery, Lucknow, and the family farm in Ashfield Township. At Joyce’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral. Memorial donations to the Lucknow United Church or the Lucknow Legion, would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy. “FAMILY was her love; FAITH was her anchor; WORK was her life; INTEGRITY was her ideal.”