Obituary of Joy Wilhelmina Morley

It is with profound sadness that the family of Joy Wilhelmina (“Willie”) Morley announces her passing on May 18, 2026, at the age of 76. Willie was strong-willed, determined, and a true force to be reckoned with, but, above all, her life was defined by generosity, faith, and a deep love for her family. A long-time resident of London, Ontario, she touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

After retiring from the Medical Records department at University Hospital in London, Ontario after 29 years of dedicated service, she found many side quests to keep herself busy. In her spare time, Willie found joy and purpose in creating beautiful handmade works of art. She lovingly sewed stunning wedding and bridesmaid dresses, crocheted warm winter hats for veterans, and crafted amazing quilts that were auctioned to raise funds for local charities, all reflecting only a small part of her many talents and generous spirit.

Willie’s faith was an important part of her life, especially in her later years. When her health permitted, she could be found in her pew on Sunday mornings, drawing comfort and community from her church family.

Willie is lovingly survived by her three children and their spouses: Suzanne (Rene) Theroux of Alberta, Bill (Tara) Morley of Ontario, and Lee-Anne (Mike) Hanrahan of British Columbia. She is also survived by her five grandchildren, Alisa Morley, Chris and Nick Morley, and Lucas and Jacob Hanrahan; her great-grandchild, Benjamin Hackett; and her brother, Casey Heimgartner. She will be dearly missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished family friends.

Willie was predeceased by her parents, Henricus and Cornelia (nee Schoenmakers) Van der Bruggen; her sister and brother-in-law, Henriette and Joe Durocher; her youngest sister, Johanna Granger, and sister-in-law Cheryl Heimgartner.

A Celebration of Life will be held in August to honour Willie’s birthday. Details regarding the date, time, and location will be shared with family and friends once arrangements have been confirmed.

The family would like to thank the staff at Parkwood Hospital, Mount Hope LTC, and Victoria Hospital for their care and compassion throughout Willie’s care. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Willie’s memory to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, Diabetes Canada or St Michael and All Angels Church in London — causes that were close to her heart.