ANNE “JOYCE” MCWILLIAMS (née Pretty)
Anne “Joyce” McWilliams (née Pretty), aged 81 years of Moose Jaw, SK passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025. She was predeceased by her husband of 51 years Grant; daughter, Kathryn; brothers, Raymond and Daniel; sister, Evelyn; and parents, Harold and Gladys. Joyce is survived by her son, Ian (Jennifer) and their children Grace and Bennet; son, Allen (Amanda) and their children Clark and Myles; brother, Edward (Lynne) Pretty and family; sister-in-law, Lorraine (Daniel) Pretty and family; sister-in-law, Sandra (James) White and family; Sandra (Murray) McWilliams and family; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Born in Weyburn, SK, Joyce was raised on the family farm near Talmadge. Early lessons of working together to meet and overcome challenges were foundational to Joyce. Her kindness and generosity were built on a well of strength, unbreakable work ethic, determination to do things right, and her family’s dry sense of humour. Her parents survived the depression of the 1930s. The family survived the polio outbreak, though not unscathed. She rode horse-carts and sleighs to school, then worked in high-rises for her office career. After graduating from Talmadge school, she later bragged that she was the top 50% of her class of two, Joyce attended Saskatchewan Technical Institute’s new secretarial sciences program in Moose Jaw. There she met Grant, who was in the accounting program. Eventually, they married and moved to Calgary, AB. Joyce worked as a legal secretary while Grant earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of Calgary. In doing so, Joyce earned what Grant referred to as a PHT (Put Hubby Through). Returning to Saskatchewan, Joyce and Grant were an inseparable team, raising their family, growing their gardens, and stewarding the family farm.
Joyce’s life was an expression of devotion, evident in her works. She built a safe, solid, and joyous home raising three children with Grant. Joyce was a constant support at every activity of her children. Her children and grandchildren still treasure her hand-made gifts crafted with love. Joyce was a steadfast supporter of family and friends. Her table routinely hosted more than 20 people on holidays and a dozen or more on regular days. Her gardens fed family, friends, church-groups, and food banks. She volunteered for her church and community. From Block Parents to Music Festivals, she was there.
Joyce’s last few years were not easy. After the loss of her beloved and dedicated Grant, she had a long journey with Parkinson’s. If there is comfort to be found, let it be from the knowledge that she is free of suffering and that Joyce and Grant will finally rest together. They were gentle, kind, and good.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 18th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Moose Jaw Funeral Home. Reverend Tim Ellis will officiate and interment will take place at Rosedale Cemetery. Those not able to attend may view the service by going to www.moosejawfuneralhome.com/webcast/. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Shirese Noble Funeral Director 306-693-4550
It was a privilege to have known Joyce and to have been a recipient of her generosity and kindness. She was indeed a wonderful woman and excellent cook. She along with Grant raised three wonderful and accomplished children and were so proud of their grandchildren.
My condolences to Joyce’s family. When I was a little girl, Joyce and our cousin Shaaron took me on a bus trip to Lacadena to visit family. That was a very big adventure for me. A few years later when I was in hospital in Regina, Joyce visited daily, bringing me a milkshake every time. Perhaps those were some of her first experiences caring for children. Those memories will stay with me forever, as I know your memories of her will stay with you.
Fondly remembered from many visits to the farm. Travel well, cousin.
Ian and Alan- my condolences on Joyces’ death. You chose a lovely picture of her- just like I remember her. She was a lovely woman and will be missed.
There are so many ways as family we are grateful to have known our sister in law Joyce. Her thoughtfulness of family and friends was very much appreciated. Many a family meal , Rider GameDay get togethers….time spent together at the farm having a wiener roast and lots of laughter….
Joyce , we miss you
Ian and Alan, my deepest sympathy on your mother“s passing. Joyce was a wonderful woman –I always enjoyed our visits when we would meet during our grocery shopping. Always happy to tell me how her children were doing, I know she was so proud of you and your families. Although this time is hard, remember all the wonderful times you and your families had with her–the laughs will outnumber the tears. Take care.