It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joy Robinson (nee Castella), on Thursday, April 11, 2025 an incredible woman who graced the world for 97 vibrant years. Joy will be dearly missed by her daughters Christine, Julie, Andrea and Karen, as well as sons-in-law Jim Chapel and Chris deFreitas. She will be greatly missed by her cherished grandchildren Ava, Emily, William, Evelyn and Sabrina. She is fondly remembered by her brother Gilbert (Eileen) and her nieces, nephews and their partners. Joy was loved by her many friends, especially her Thimbellinas. She is predeceased by her beautiful son (John), her husband and partner in life (Mel), her sister and brother-in-law (Stella and Gino Artuso), and her parents Isaia (Jim) Castella and Mary (Munisso).

Life presented Joy with its share of tragedy, profound sadness, and loss. Yet, it was her extraordinary ability to seek out the glimmers of “joy”, to find humour, and forgiveness even in the face of adversity. At an age when most would consider retirement, Joy embarked on a new chapter, returning to the workforce at the age of 50. For the next three decades, she dedicated her sharp mind to the world of accounting and established her own business “The Joy of Bookkeeping”. She found satisfaction and purpose in her work, demonstrating a remarkable tenacity and adaptability that inspired all who knew her.

For 70 remarkable years, the walls of Joy’s cherished Applewood Acres home stood witness to the tapestry of her life. It was within those familiar rooms she built a life filled with love, resilience, and unwavering spirit. Her pride in her Italian heritage was a vibrant thread woven through her life and she never forgot her first language. However, it was in her role as “Nonna” that she truly shone. Her grandchildren were the absolute light of her life, and she poured her heart and soul into nurturing their growth and showering them with boundless affection and love.

We are grateful for the loving care Joy received over the past year from Marabell, Patricia, Armi, and Irene. We are also very grateful for the respect and care we received from all staff at the M-site of the Trillium Hospital. Joy will be missed and continued to be loved by all who knew her.

Friends will be received at the Turner & Porter Peel Chapel Tuesday April 22, 2-4pm & 6-8pm.

A Mass will be held at St. Dominic Roman Catholic Church, Wednesday April 23, 11am.

In memory of Joy donations can be made to Covenant House