Louisdale

It is with immense sorrow that we announce the passing of Joyce Evelyn (Fisher) Marchand, 86, of Louisdale, NS which occurred at the Strait Richmond Hospital on August 17, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Halifax, Joyce was the daughter of the late Earl and Amelia (Sharpe) Fisher of Halifax, NS.

In her early years, Joyce worked at Moirs Chocolates and National Sea Products. Once married with children, she focused on being a dedicated mom and homemaker. At the age of 55, she went back to work at the Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home, enjoying her independence until retirement.

At a young age, she found great joy in music and dancing. She met her husband, Narcisse, in Halifax, known to her as Bernie, while attending dances with her very best friend Kay, who eventually became her sister-in-law. Kay married Narcisse’s brother, Melvin, and the four remained joined at the hip, raising their children together, living across the road from each other in Louisdale. For many years the Marchand home was filled with children, grandchildren, neighbors and friends, a gathering place, full of love, music and laughter.

Joyce loved to cook! You could find recipes written down on pieces of paper, notepads, and even on the edge of the newspaper. Once she got an iPad, she saved them all and loved sharing her favorites on Facebook. It was not often you left her home empty handed, whether it was leftovers for your lunch, or delicious baked goods. Her children and favorite nieces delighted in the special birthday cakes Joyce would make with her secret special filling just for them (which was simply their favorite pudding) but oh how they looked forward to it.

She loved playing Yahtzee and cards, and always had a trick or two up her sleeve, sometimes to help her win, but mostly to make you laugh. Her greatest passion was Bingo! You could find Joyce at bingo most evenings of the week. A real treat was to visit the Casino, jumping at every opportunity that arose.

She will be deeply missed by many, especially her warm, loving hugs which she needed as soon as someone entered the door, and again before leaving.

Joyce is survived by her three children, Tammy, Mark (Sherry) and Paula (Jamie); grandchildren, Jaimie (Petter), Joel, Cody (Ashley), Jordan (Malorie), Haley (Kyle), Kelsey, Dylan (Makayla) and Jennifer (Brian); great-grandchildren Layton and Thomas, sister Noreen, and many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Joyce was predeceased by her beloved husband of 59 years, Narcisse; brothers, Clyde, Tommy, Howard, Edgar and Reg; sisters Elsie and Rhoda and other family members.

The family wishes to thank all of those who cared for Joyce, especially her daughter Paula, son Mark, doctors, nurses & the palliative care team of Strait Richmond Hospital for their compassion during Joyce’s final journey. Special thanks to her daughter-in-law, Sherry, who for so many years, tended to every need for both Joyce and Narcisse.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 11 a.m. in the St. Louis Parish Church, Louisdale, with Father Duncan MacIsaac officiating. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.

Memorial donations in Joyce’s memory may be made to the Strait Richmond Healthcare Foundation, the Strait Richmond Palliative Care Society or a charity of your choice.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Evy Landry and Pier Community Funeral Home.

Online Condolences

Our deepest sympathy is extended to Joyce’s children, grandchildren and extended family. My fondest memories of Joyce are seeing her on the dance floor with Uncle Bernie living it up! The tea was on in the am accompanied by her cigarette and her bestie, Kay sitting across the table. They were connected at the hip. She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing Yahtzee, cards and loved her favourite, bingo. I had the opportunity to work with her at the PH Nursing Home where she was well liked and respected by staff and residents. Thanks so much Joyce for your recipe for Chinese spaghetti! It’s a favourite in my house thanks to u! I hope you’re having a little sip and a two step with Uncle Bernie today. You’ll be sadly missed by all of us❤️
From:  Love Darlene, Terry, and sister in law, Doris