Obituary of Josie Marguerite Joyce

Josie was born on June 19, 1937, in Ship Cove, Burin, Newfoundland and Labrador, one of eight children born to Reginald and Verna Inkpen.

As the eldest daughter, Josie naturally took on the role of caring for her younger siblings. She was a devoted sister and remained a lifelong friend to them all. On June 1st, 1957, Josie married Max Joyce, her beloved husband and love of her life. Together, they shared 25 wonderful years of marriage and raised five children until Max’s passing in 1983. Side by side, they operated Joyce’s Auto Repair and became known for their kindness, generosity, and willingness to help anyone in need. Their home was always open to family and friends, where many gathered to enjoy hearty meals, laughter, lively guitar nights, and the warmth of their hospitality.

Josie deeply cherished time with her family and especially looked forward to travelling to Fort McMurray, AB, during the winter months to visit her children and grandchildren. Those visits brought her great joy and created many treasured memories. Josie will always be remembered for her quick wit, kind heart, and warm, friendly smile. She had a gift for making people feel welcome and loved. Her nieces and nephews treasured their time with Aunt Josie, and her grandchildren dearly loved their Nanny. They will forever remember her funny sayings, her homemade bread, and her toutons.

Josie’s legacy of love, humour, generosity, and devotion to family will live on in all who knew her, especially her children and grandchildren.

Josie was predeceased by her beloved husband, Max Joyce; her parents, Reginald and Verna Inkpen; her brothers, Clarence Inkpen, Donald Inkpen, and Robert Inkpen; and her nephew, Dion Inkpen.

Leaving to mourn with loving memories are her children: Gary (Lynn), Gail (Ray), Chris (Lucie), Rod (Kim), and Tracey (Brad); her sisters, Peggy (Robert), Marie (George), and Judy (Cyril); her brother, Nelson (Emily); her nine grandchildren; her fifteen great-grandchildren; and a large circle of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

The family would like to sincerely acknowledge and thank the staff of the Marystown Retirement Centre for the wonderful care, kindness and support they provided their mother over the past seven years. 

The family would also like to thank the staff of the Blue Crest Home, and US Memorial Health Centre for their exceptional compassionate care, comfort and support.

Donations in her memory may be made to Bethany United Church, Box 315  Burin Bay Arm, NL A0E1G0 in lieu of flowers.

Family receiving friends on Friday April 17, 2026 from 2-4PM & 7-9PM at Serenity Funeral Home 95 Main Street Burin, NL.

Funeral service at Bethany United Church, 259-261 Main Street, Burin NL on Saturday April 18, 2026 at 2PM with interment following at Bethany United cemetery.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home 95 Main Street Burin, NL "We listen, we learn, we walk with you."

Her greatest joy was her family; she was the devoted heart of her children and the playful spirit of her grandchildren.

Her love and laughter will live on in every story they tell and every smile they share.