December 5, 1934 - May 20, 2025
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Joy Cotter, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend on May 20, 2025, at the age of 90. Born in Exeter, England, to George and Edna Marchant, Joy moved to Canada with her family in 1937. She spent her childhood in Duncan, BC, before pursuing her passion for art at the Vancouver School of Art (now Emily Carr University of Art and Design), where she cultivated a lifelong love for creativity and expression.
In 1958, Joy married Jerome Cotter, and together they made their home in Prince George, BC, where they raised their seven children. A woman of deep faith and community spirit, Joy was a dedicated member of Sacred Heart Cathedral and Parish and was actively involved in the Roman Catholic school system and broader Catholic community.
Alongside Jerome, she helped establish the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Prince George in 1982 and remained devoted to its mission of helping those in need throughout her life. Joy’s artistic gifts enriched the community in countless ways, from the vibrant church banners she created to the art classes she taught and her active participation in the local arts scene. Her generosity, wit, and kindness left a lasting impression on all who crossed her path.
Joy was much loved and will be deeply missed by all that knew her. She leaves behind a family who adored her: her children, grandchildren, and countless friends and community members who were touched by her generosity and spirit, her great sense of humor and compassion.
Joy is predeceased by Jerome, brother Philip, and daughter Katherine.
She is survived by her brother Michael, her children, Sally (Anthony), Stephan (Julie), Patrick (Sara), James (Cathy), Fiona (Rob) and Nicholas (Kim), and her 12 grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Joy’s memory.