Obituary of Joyce Margaret Ann Lumsden
LUMSDEN, Joyce Margaret Ann – age 85 of Lantz. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joyce on April 12, 2023. Born in South Nelson, NB, she was the daughter of the late Burton and Agatha Blackmore.
Joyce had fond memories of growing up in a large family and was always close to her siblings and extended family. A true matriarch and mother of five, she valued her family above everything. She would tell you her moments with family were her happiest. There are several words that could describe our mom, but the most fitting might be irreplaceable. She was our family glue, always concerned for family and friends and mom was the source of knowledge regarding all, due to her uncanny recall ability. A keen learner, she was a Jill of many trades and master of some. Our mother would sew, knit, crochet and refinish furniture, but few could surpass her skills as a baker and cook. She used this skill to ensure family birthdays were filled with favourite meals and extraordinary cakes. Mom had the gift of gab, able to turn a small story into a much longer one, sometimes in the form of a famed late night phone call. Beyond her family, she was proud and active in her Nine Mile River Community. She was a longstanding member of the Ladies Auxiliary, an avid Wednesday night bingo player, and often volunteered during election time.
In addition to her domestic skills, Joyce also worked for a period of time outside the home earning a trip to Hawaii as the local Avon lady, a kitchen full of durable storage containers as a Tupperware salesperson and great culinary skills from her years as a cook for Cara at the Halifax International Airport.
From Saturday night dances to Christmas Eve get-togethers, Joyce danced through life with her lifelong dance partner and husband of 65 years, Alexander Lumsden. Truly devoted, they each made sure they started and ended each day with a kiss. With Alex, she raised 5 children; Cindy Mielke, Bedford; Steve (Karen), Sackville; Sherry Miller (Neil), Lantz; Karen Peters (Hammond), PEI; Glen (Cheri), Ottawa. She loved spending time with her grandchildren; Amy Mielke (Pat), Richard, Jeremy, Caitlin Lumsden, Ryan (Alex) & Kyle Miller, Kylee Peters, Grace & John Lumsden. She is also survived by sister, Deanna Gautreau & sister-in-law, Mable Matchett, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Along with her parents she was predeceased by her son-in-law, Don Mielke; brothers, Junior & Gordie; sisters, Marjorie, Florence, Mary, Shirley, Theresa.
Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of Ettinger Funeral Home, Elmsdale.
Celebration of life will be held at the Nine Mile River Community Hall, 7160 Highway 14, Nine Mile River, on Friday, April 28th, 2023, from 6-9 pm.
Donations in Joyce’s memory may be made to the Lung Association of Nova Scotia and PEI or to a charity of your choice.
Tributes, words of comfort and memories of Joyce can be shared with the family at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com.