Joyce Mae HESLEP

HESLEP, Joyce Mae (Chaney)
October 16, 1930 - March 27, 2018
With sadness and joy, in equal measure, we celebrate the life of our mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Joyce was born in Edmonton, eldest child of John and Sophronia (Jones) Chaney. Her early years were lived in both Alberta and British Columbia. Upon graduation from commercial high school, Joyce was employed by the Government of Canada as a secretary. Her career progressed, with growing levels of responsibility, at University of Alberta, NAIT and Queen Elizabeth High School. Both as a pioneering young career woman and, later, as a working mother, Joyce excelled in her various roles, winning the appreciation and confidence of her employers and colleagues.
In 1948, Joyce met Scotty Heslep, an ambitious young veteran of World War II. They were wed in 1951 and, over the following years, built a strong and closely-knit family, as Joyce gave birth to daughters Cathryn and Carol, and son, Cameron. As a homemaker, mother and hostess, no cake ever went unbaked.
Joyce and Scotty had a deep and enduring faith in their Lord and Saviour. They were strong contributors of their time and service at Central Pentecostal Tabernacle and, later, West Edmonton Christian Assembly. Joyce was particularly active in children's Sunday School, teaching, developing programs and directing the preparation of young Christians.
Joyce loved life and became well-known for her joyful interactions with everyone she encountered, whether lifelong friend or total stranger. She also delighted in a vibrant personal style, with particular emphasis on footwear fashion. Joyce's positive outlook and Scotty's unshakeable devotion sustained her through an amazing recovery from a devastating stroke, in 2001. Her character and personal courage is a continuing inspiration to all.
Joyce was predeceased by her daughter Carol (Roland Majeau) in 2006; her brother, Ken Chaney, in 2014, and her beloved husband, Scotty, in 2016. She is survived by her daughter, Cathryn (Doug McLaughlin); her son, Cameron (Suzanne); her grandsons, Conrad Murphy, Jordan Majeau (Tammy), Justin Majeau (Ladonna) and Marc Majeau; her granddaughter, Kelsey Heslep-Yakemchuk (Matt); by her great-grandsons, Martin Majeau, Henry Majeau, Timothy Majeau; by her sisters, Joan Lafayette and Lenora Murphy; her sister-in-law, Helen Heslep, and by her brother, Larry Chaney (Marilyn) and many, many more relatives and dear friends.
Finally, the family gives thanks to some very special, caring people – the staff of Unit 5B, at the Edmonton General Hospital, who gave Joyce their time, their skills and their hearts. Folks, you are the best.
Joyce's Funeral Service will be held at West Edmonton Christian Assembly, 6315 199 Street on Tuesday, April 3, 2018. Commemoration will commence with viewing at 11:15 a.m. and service at 12:00 noon, with cake and coffee to follow.