Joyce Mayled (née McCrimmon) was born in Edmonton, Alberta, and spent her childhood on the family farm near Bon Accord. She was the beloved daughter of Arthur McCrimmon, born in Winnipeg, and Bessie (Hoefer) McCrimmon, born in Hubbard, Iowa. Joyce’s early family story stretched across the prairies and the American Midwest — her grandfather Hoefer moved to California for his health, and it was in Pasadena, California, where Arthur and Bessie married and began their life together.
Joyce grew up alongside her siblings Everett, Malcolm, and baby Catharine, who tragically passed away from pneumonia at just two years and two months old. Joyce carried her sister’s memory tenderly throughout her life.
She attended school in Bon Accord and later the Vermilion School of Agriculture, where her strong work ethic and practical skills quickly became evident. Joyce was recruited to the Ponoka Mental Hospital, then home to 1,800 residents, where she was tasked with improving meal services, an early sign of her lifelong commitment to care, service, and community.
It was in Ponoka that Joyce met Ron Mayled, a psychiatric nurse. They married and began a partnership that would last 65 years, marked by deep devotion, shared purpose, and a remarkable ability to adapt and grow together. In 1967, the couple moved to the Claresholm Mental Hospital, historically a women’s institution. When men were first admitted, Ron became the hospital’s first male charge nurse and later its first social worker—roles Joyce supported with pride.
Together, Joyce and Ron raised three children—Catherine, Judy, and Brent, and built a family life rich in love, faith, and community involvement. Joyce was a dedicated leader in CGIT and the CGIT Alumni, contributing a combined 29 years of service. She also volunteered with Meals on Wheels alongside Marlene Nelson and
Dr. Barry Mitchell, bringing comfort and nourishment to many.
Joyce’s faith journey, which began at the age of five and remained a guiding force throughout her life. She lived her beliefs quietly but steadfastly, offering kindness, hospitality, and compassion to all who crossed her path.
She was blessed with five grandchildren—four boys and one girl—and two great grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy. For someone who once imagined she might never marry, Joyce often reflected with a smile that her life had blossomed into a family far larger and more beautiful than she ever expected.
Joyce will be remembered for her warmth, her resilience, her unwavering faith, and the gentle strength with which she shaped the lives of those she loved. Her legacy lives on in her family, her community, and the countless people whose days were brightened by her presence.
A Funeral Service will be held at Zentner Funeral Homes on Monday, May 18, 2026 at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.