CARTER, Joyce

Oct. 30, 1941 - Mar. 6, 2020

We regret to announce that Mrs. Joyce Carter passed away quietly on the morning of Friday March 6th, in Surrey B.C.

Joyce (Ritsuko) Carter was born on October 30, 1941, in Vancouver, to parents Miyako and Tadao Murata. She grew up in Vancouver, until the start of the 2nd World War, with older brother John (Masu) and older sister Gene (Toyoko).

After WWII ended and Japanese Canadians were allowed to move home the Murata family returned to Vancouver. The 3 siblings eventually graduated from high school and Joyce and Gene were able to attend UBC where Joyce earned her teaching degree.

She proudly taught elementary school students through the years and retired in the 90's. It was shortly before retiring that she met the love of her life, Ken Carter. The two were wed on July 6, 1996. Together, they enjoyed travelling, Bingo, coin shows, cheering for the Canucks and most of all spending time with their grandchildren. Joyce was a renowned baker and her desserts were legendary at family gatherings. She was also a 40 year plus member of the Vancouver African violet club.

Joyce is survived by daughter Kimberly (Mike) Watts and their children Joshua (Linh), Ryley (Matthew) and their son Carson, daughter Christine Carter and her children Brittany and Tyler and son John Carter (Theresa) and their children Tristan and Matthew. Joyce is aunt to Jaimee Oikawa (Joey/Naomi) and Kirby Oikawa.

Joyce will be remembered for the strength she showed when she survived breast cancer and more recently in dealing with the loss of her husband, Ken Carter, only a few short years ago. We love you and will miss you.