Obituary of Joyce McDonald

On Sunday, September 15, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend Levina “Joyce” McDonald, passed away at the age of 94. She was born in Glace Bay, Cape Breton on July 12, 1930 to the late Matthew and Fanny Taylor. Known for her love of dancing, reading, and traveling, Joyce lived a full life with abundant love, laughter, and joy. She kept her wit and humor up until her final days. She had a way with words, and often punctuated many life situations with a humorous idiom. Being in her company during a Toronto Blue Jays baseball game never failed to entertain, and she never missed a game.

She loved her family deeply. Her daughter, grandchildren, and great grandson were the light of her life. She beamed with pride at the family she nurtured, and she was immensely grateful and happy to build a relationship and loving memories with her great grandson. During her final weeks, upon sincerely reflecting and reminiscing, she shared that she would live her life over again exactly as it was.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter Karen Haritakis, nee McDonald, grandson Nicholas Matthew Haritakis (Rachel Costanzo), granddaughter Rachel Major (Christopher), great grandson Zealand Matthew Major, brother Weldon Taylor (Sandra McDougall), brother Dan Taylor (Ida), many nieces and nephews, and chosen family who loved and cared for her, Debbie and Rick Agnew. She is also sister to George (Leah) Taylor and Robert (Gert) Taylor. 

Joyce is reunited with her husband, Frank McDonald, siblings Lilian Butts (Ken), Reta Kirkpatrick (Jim), Doug Taylor (Sadie), sister-in-law Carol Taylor, and aforementioned mother and father. 

She will be missed beyond measure, and her loved ones will find solace in the happy memories that Joyce gifted them. Cremation has taken place. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, (905)-937-4444. Memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.