Lillian “Joyce” Nevard

Lillian “Joyce” Nevard (née Chafe) passed away peacefully at her home on October 22, 2026, at the age of 85, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Petty Harbour, Newfoundland, on June 7, 1941, to Frederick and Florence, Joyce was one of thirteen children. She left school at age 15 and began working at the local fish plant before later joining the Purity factory. In 1966, she moved to Ontario, where she devoted her life to raising her family and building a future for those she loved. Throughout her life, she worked many jobs and retired at age 62 to care for her two youngest grandchildren.

Joyce was the heart and soul of her family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, she was known for her strength, unwavering love, and fierce devotion to those she cherished. Family was always at the centre of her life, and she took immense pride in her Newfoundland roots and the legacy of love she created for future generations.  Through her example, she instilled in her family a strong work ethic, the value of honesty, and the importance of finding laughter and joy in every day.

Joyce was a protector through and through. No matter how old her children became, she never stopped worrying about them. If someone was travelling to visit her, she always wanted a thumbs-up message when they arrived home safely. It was one of the many ways she showed her love and care.

Those who knew her will forever remember her familiar response whenever someone ended a phone call or left her home saying, “Talk to you later” or “See you tomorrow.” Her answer was always, “Please God.” Those two simple words will remain a treasured memory in the hearts of her family.

Leaving to mourn with cherished memories are her children, Brian (Sandy), Tony (Levina), Mike, Lisa (Brian), and Colleen (Denis); her grandchildren, Kirk, Kira (Patrick), Nikita (Mike), Carly, Hailley, Mikaela, Brooke, and Hope; and her great-grandchildren, Declan, Ashling, Kinsley, Evey, Peyton, and Lauren. She also leaves behind her siblings, Pauline, Stewart (Sandra), Drexelle, Leone, Clayton (Linda), Alvin (Carol), Marlene (Gary), and Cynthia (Barry); sister-in-law, Francis; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, relatives, and friends. Predeceased by her beloved husband, Ron (1989); her parents, Frederick and Florence; siblings, Elsie, Olive, Launa, and Noel; and brothers-in-law Ron, James A., Raymond, James G., and Mike.

Joyce’s passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved her. Her family finds comfort in knowing that the love, strength, and values she shared will continue to live on through every generation she helped shape.

Forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Tranquility Burial & Cremation Services (Niagara) Inc. In honour of Joyce and her love of the colour blue, family and friends are invited to wear something blue to the memorial service which will be held on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at St. George’s Anglican Church, 83 Church Street, St. Catharines, followed by a luncheon and celebration of life. Condolences and memories can be shared at tranquilitycremation.com