On Wednesday, October 23, 2019, with grace, dignity and conviction, our beloved mother, Margaret Joyce Helston (née Thomson), left this world from her home surrounded by her adored four children: Leslie (Mike), Eric (Jennifer), John, and Stephen (Tracey). Grammi will be forever missed by her sister, Jean Thomson, and seven grandchildren: Martiń, Charlotte, Oscar, Danica, Sierra, Simone and Claire. Joyce, Jercey, Jercela, Mom, Mommy, Gram and Grammi, was our queen and our rock, guiding us for over 60 years of attentive parenting, providing solid advice and wise counsel during good and bad times. Joyce taught French to thousands of students, opening them to the benefits that a second language can bring, both intellectually, and culturally. Mom was known and respected for providing a fair and safe space for students to explore concepts and values using their new language skills. She loved teaching her many students and said many times that they kept her young and forward thinking. Over the decades since she retired, Mom displayed altruism and a willingness to help: volunteering as buyer at a the Etobicoke General Hospital gift shop, raising funds for medical equipment, improving the world for people and the environment through monthly contributions. Mom explored the world, enjoying travels with friends, by herself, and with family throughout her life. Joyce was an avid swimmer, reader, crossword and jigsaw puzzler, and embroidery master; her later years were spent pursuing these personal activities. We will all miss her smiles, strength of character, wit and love. A private gathering of family and close friends will be held on Sunday October 27, and a much larger Celebration of Life will be held on what would have been her 92nd birthday, Sunday, February 16, 2020. As per Mom’s request, donations can be made to a fund which will promote opportunities for Indigenous youth to learn their traditional languages to ensure longevity. Online condolences may be made through www.turnerporter.ca

Oh, how we will all miss her. Au revoir, maman. And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.

Legacy Memorial Fund for the late Joyce Helston
Please direct your memorial donations to:

Bank of Montreal
2194 Lake Shore Blvd W
Etobicoke, ON M8V1A2
416-251-3368
Account # 0419-3965-922
Attention: Florida Demnushaj