Joyce Stiles was a beacon of joy and warmth in the Meals on Wheels community. Known for her infectious smile and hearty laugh, Joyce had a unique ability to make everyone feel at ease. Whether it was a client receiving a meal or a volunteer walking through the door, Joyce's presence was a source of comfort and happiness.
Starting her journey with Meals on Wheels in the 1980s, Joyce quickly became a familiar face in the office. Her role as an office administrator was just the beginning; she was the heart of the operation, always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. If a volunteer was unable to deliver meals, Joyce would step in without hesitation, ensuring that no one went without their much-needed nourishment.
Joyce's daughter, Diane, fondly recalls the times she spent at the Queen Alexandra Centre offices. "Mom had a way of making everyone feel special," Diane reminisces. "She remembered names, faces, and little details about people's lives. It was like she had a mental Rolodex of everyone she met."
The vibrant red brick building of the Queen Alexandra Centre holds a special place in Diane's heart. It was not just a workplace for Joyce; it was a second home. Diane often visited her mother there, sharing lunches at the picnic tables on the property and creating memories that would last a lifetime. The creaky hardwood floors and ornate ceilings of the building became a backdrop for moments of connection and reflection.
"Meals on Wheels was more than just a volunteer opportunity for Mom," Diane explains. "It was a way for her to connect with the community and make a real difference in people's lives. She knew that the meals and the visits from volunteers were often the highlight of the week for many seniors."
Joyce's dedication to Meals on Wheels continued until 2005, and her impact was felt long after she passed away in 2007. Diane's connection to the organization remained strong, and she even chose to celebrate her wedding at the Queen Alexandra Centre in 2018, honoring her mother's memory.
Though Joyce is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the stories and memories of those who knew her. Her smile, her laugh, and her unwavering commitment to helping others continue to inspire the Meals on Wheels community in Peterborough.
