Obituary of Joyce Kimberly Kuzyk

It is with profound sadness that the family of Joyce Kuzyk announces her passing, after a sudden and brief illness, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton on Saturday, August 15, 2026. Born in Oakville, ON, October 2, 1955, she was a longtime resident of Oromocto, New Brunswick.

Joyce leaves behind her daughter, Robin Kuzyk (Ray Agostino) as well as a second daughter; stepchildren, Ashley Boyer (Derek) and Michael Burke; Ashley and Derek’s children, Riley and Everett; chosen granddaughter, Charity; two brothers, Sandy Chess (Arlene) and Doug Chess (Laleh); three sisters, Barb Pope, Bonnie Scully (Mark) and Terri Hayward; she leaves to mourn aunts, Violet and Charlotte; uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family members; the Wednesday night craft ladies, Kim Camp, Kimberly Peori, Sarah Milner, Cathy Elvin, Alex McCafferty and Fran Vollhoffer; beloved pets, dogs Pip and Daisy, GiGi the cat, her birds and Hello Crow. Joyce was predeceased by her parents, Alexander and Thelma (Stark) Chess; first husband, Peter Kuzyk and second husband Doug Burke, as well as her sister, Pat; niece Carrie.

Joyce lived a life filled with purpose and variety. She served in the Canadian Armed Forces from 1974-1988, earned her Bachelor of Education at University of New Brunswick in 1995, raised two daughters, and she spent most of her teaching years as an Art teacher at Ridgeview Middle School where she influenced young minds. Upon retiring, she brought warmth and kindness to her work at Shoppers Drug Mart Oromocto. She was happiest learning, creating, and sharing what she knew with others.

Joyce had a heart as big as she was and a personality all her own. She was the best listener, always ready with a helping hand, thoughtful advice, or simply a place to sit and talk. She welcomed people easily – some would say she collected them, made them feel at home, and was never afraid to speak her mind. Her creativity, humour, determination, and generosity left an impression on everyone who knew her.

Perhaps Joyce's greatest legacy is not found in the things she created, but in the people, she brought together, the friendships she nurtured, and the memories, stories, and laughter she leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Oromocto Funeral Home on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm with words of remembrance beginning at 5:00 pm. For those who wish, donations in Joyce’s memory may be made to the Oromocto SPCA, Oromocto Food Bank or Ridgeview Middle School.