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Joyce ‘Joy’ has made Pascoe Vale Gardens her home, embracing community and connection every day. “I could almost live here,” she said to herself when first visiting, and she has done just that ever since.
Joy moved to Pascoe Vale Gardens in January 2022 for respite care but quickly decided to stay permanently. Daily tasks like lifting, shopping and cooking were becoming difficult when she lived alone. At Pascoe Vale Gardens, she enjoys the variety of meals and help with laundry and cleaning allows her to spend more time with friends and family. From her ground-floor apartment overlooking the Club House and lawn, she loves watching lawn bowls and taking part in social events whenever she can.
Joy has devoted nearly two decades to Legacy Widows, organising luncheons at Pascoe Vale and Glenroy RSLs, maintaining contact with members, arranging transport and remembering birthdays. She’s also active in War Widows groups and previously spent 18 years volunteering at the Royal Women’s Hospital and the Old Colonists’
Home in Fitzroy.
Earlier this year, Joy was awarded the Order of Australia (OAM) for her tireless service to veterans’ widows and their families. She was surprised and honoured, first hearing the news from her son Ian. Nominated by Legacy representative Warwick, she received her medal from the Governor-General at Government House on 9 September, joined by her sons and daughters-in-law.
Even at 98, Joy continues to support widows, organise luncheons and stay active, a true testament to the spirit of service and care that defines both her and Pascoe Vale Gardens.
Photo: Joy receiving her OAM from the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC.
