Mary "Joy" Josephine Melnyk

On March 31, 2026, we lost our loving mother, Mary (Joy) Josephine Melnyk. Joy was the wife of James Melnyk (deceased July 20, 2022). She passed peacefully in the arms of her loving niece, Stephanie Williamson, her closest friends, Kipp and Jill Holloway, and her daughters.

Joy was born in Vernon, BC, originally an only child. She later gained a sister and brother through marriage. Growing up, her best friend was her adoring cousin, Gail Pilling. Gail and Joy were as close as sisters right to the end.

Joy is survived by her four daughters: Lori Ruck (Ron, Kelowna), Kari Streleoff (Lake Country), Jo-Ann Hedin (Hal, Salmon Arm), and Lyn Wagner (Greg, Lake Country).

She is also survived by her four grandchildren: Todd Ruck (Sienna), Rylan Channell (Danielle), Aric Ruck, and Orie Hedin; and her four great-grandchildren: Cordell and Bentley Hedin, and Sawyer and Harvey Channell. Our mother is also survived by her sister, Linda Shusheski (and her family), and her brother, Eric Williamson (and his family).

Our mother leaves a legacy of a welcoming home for all. She was always willing to give and/or share everything she had. She loved children—her own and everyone else’s. Her generous heart and loving nature were a true gift. She inspired generations with her strength, kindness, love, and determination. Her service to her family, friends, and community will be deeply missed.

Joy was an avid gardener and a talented watercolour artist. When asked what heaven looked like, she replied, “Being on the back porch in Silverton, with a paintbrush in my hand, all the while listening to my loved ones laugh and play.”

The four daughters would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to our caregiving team, who enabled our mother to remain in her home until the end: Ray Wilson, Stephanie Williamson, Dr. McCarroll, and the many Interior Health care aides, as well as the amazing staff at QVH.

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., a graveside gathering will be held in Revelstoke at Mountain View Cemetery. All who loved our mother are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly request donations to the Revelstoke Humane Society in honour of our animal-loving mother.