Obituary of Joyce Dougherty

Joyce Dougherty (1932 – 2025) It is with great sadness that we bid adieu to Joyce Dougherty (nee Lilley), whose life ended peacefully on March 5, 2025, at the age of 92. Joyce grew up in Pointe- Saint- Charles, a neighborhood of Montreal where economic struggles were a reality, but she was able to create so much from what little she had. From an early age, Joyce was resourceful and fiercely independent, teaching herself to sew as a teenager and becoming an accomplished seamstress. After marrying her husband Frank in 1951 and raising five children, Joyce returned to school to become a registered nurse, graduating at the top of her class. Nursing came naturally to Joyce as it aligned with her propensity to help and care for others. She served as a registered nurse at the Victoria General Hospital in Halifax from 1978 to 1993. Joyce had many creative interests and accomplishments throughout her life, including sewing, knitting, painting, photography, stained glass, and winemaking, to name a few. She was well-travelled, and lived in such places as Australia, Pennsylvania, and, of course, Halifax. She was an avid reader as well – she appreciated literature and loved a good mystery! Joyce lived a “full life,” experiencing great joys and achievements, but also great tragedies, which reinforced her tendency to be resilient, strong, and compassionate. Joyce is survived by her son, Don (Karin) and daughters Deanne (Bob) Rainville and Karyn, as well as her beloved grandchildren, Katherine (Sophie), Paul, Julian (Kelsey), Danielle (Logan), and Andrés, and great-grandchild, Marlowe. She was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Frank; sons, Frank and Michael; sister, Gale, and brother, Donald. Joyce touched countless lives with her kind and gentle nature and always thought of others before herself. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Joyce’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice. Joyce’s family would like to thank the management and staff of Parkland at the Gardens for the exceptional care and service they provided to Joyce over the past four years. A Celebration of Life will be held on March 30, 2025, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm at Parkland at the Gardens, 5732 College St, Halifax.