Obituary of Joyce Melba Carnell

It is with profound sadness we, the family, of Joyce Carnell, formerly of Kentville, announce her death on October 27, 2023, in Blomidon Court Shannex, Greenwich. Born on April 2, 1939, she was the eldest and only daughter of the late Malcolm and Dorothy (Davison) McInnis, of Black River.

Joyce would recount many memories of her early life growing up in Black River, such as their horse and wagon trips to Wolfville, school days with her brothers and friends, and attending the Black River Church.

As a young woman, Joyce moved to the former nurse’s residence and worked with the housekeeping staff at the Blanchard Fraser Memorial Hospital in Kentville. She went on to meet and marry David “Dave” Carnell, whom she was married to for 58 years. After briefly relocating to New Brunswick, they returned to Kentville to raise their three children. Joyce provided housekeeping services for Boyd and Florence Lutz for 14 years and was a long-time employee of the Valley Professional Centre, retiring in 1998. After retirement Joyce enjoyed the company of her framily, her two Persian cats (Lovey and Skippy), scenic drives with Dave, and crafting. She was proud to become a member of the Red Cross and volunteering to support the Kosovo refugees at Camp Aldershot in 1999, where she made many long-time friends.

Joyce will always be remembered as a friendly, kind, and caring person and was known for her beautiful blue eyes and infectious laugh.

“She was a friend to everyone she met”

Joyce will lovingly be remembered by children, David Carnell of New Minas; Debbie Carnell of Middleton; and Darrell (Heather Veinot) Carnell of Centreville; grandchildren, Tommy Carnell, Tyler Carnell, Casandra Carnell, Melissa Brothers, and Charles Brothers; step-granddaughter, Laura Llewellyn; five great-grandchildren; and brother, Randy McInnis of Kentville.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was predeceased by her husband, Dave; and brothers, Gerald and Dale.

The family would like to thank the care-team of the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON), and the staff of Blomidon Court for their loving care of Joyce. Special thanks to Dr. Matthew Targett, Bonnie Spencer, Pearl Sutherland, Rhonda Goucher, Sheila Streatch, and all the other individuals who supported Joyce through her illness.

A Memorial Service will be held on November 9, 2023,  at 2:00 pm  in the Serenity Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Black River Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Victorian Order of Nurses – Annapolis Valley, IWK Health Centre, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or the Canadian Cancer Society. Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home, 34 Coldbrook Village Park Dr., Coldbrook, NS, B4R 1B9 (902-679-2822).