It is with profound sadness that the family announces the passing of Raymond Marcel Joly on December 3, 2023 at HSN with his loving family by his side. He leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Renée (Pennarun), his 3 children and 7 grandchildren. Ray was the proud father of Mark Joly (Sylvie Plante), Tracy MacDonald (Gary), Robin Joly (Sylvia Michelizza). He was Pépère to 7 special grandchildren: Camille Joly, Samuel Joly, Hannah MacDonald, Alyssa MacDonald, Juliana Joly, Celeste Joly and Mira Joly.
Ray was the son of Maurice Joly (predeceased) and Carmen Joly-Goulet (Noël Goulet predeceased); loving brother of Lillian Bede (Michael), Richard Joly, Don Joly (JoAnne) and Ed Joly (predeceased; wife, Pauline).
He will also be missed by the Pennarun family: Geri Heffernan (Dennis predeceased), Mark Pennarun (Debbie), Claude Pennarun (Becky), Nicole Vandeligt (Peter), Valerie Jarus (Brian), Patsy Wainman (Doug), Pat Pennarun (Colleen) and Joanne Drake (John Mirabelli). He was a loving and inspirational uncle to many nieces and nephews with whom he had a very special bond.
Ray grew up in Garson and worked as a Human Resources Supervisor at Inco for 34 years until his retirement in 1999. He took pride in saying that while on the job, he always treated everyone the way he would want to be treated. Retiring at a younger age, he was able to build his dream home on Ashigami Lake where he and Renée spent the next 12 years. He and Renée also had the freedom to enjoy numerous winters in Florida where they made many lasting friendships. In retirement he was an active volunteer, serving organizations such as the Ashigami Campers’ Association, the Kukagami Local Roads Board, the St. John’s Cemetery Group, Adopt a Road, and many more.
He was a faithful member of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Garson, and he had an unwavering faith and a special devotion to the Virgin Mary. He watched the morning Mass on TV and recited the rosary daily. He loved being outside, keeping busy around the yard, and he took great pride in his well-manicured lawn and flower beds. After a full day’s work, he liked to relax by reading a good book or watching golf, National Geographic or nature programs on television. Ray was also an avid golfer who loved his weekly rounds at Cedar Green and enjoyed the comradery of his longtime golf buddies.
Ray will be remembered for his boundless generosity, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and his positive outlook on life. Ray’s optimistic spirit and readiness to assist anyone in need left an indelible mark on the lives of those around him. He approached life with friendliness and positivity, and he fostered a sense of community wherever he went. Family was at the center of Ray’s world; he was kind, caring, and he was a pillar of strength, love and guidance. The impact he had on the lives of his children and grandchildren will endure for generations to come.
Ray’s departure leaves an unfillable void, but his memory will live on through the love he cultivated throughout his life. Raymond was one of a kind. As we mourn his loss, let us celebrate the beautiful life he lived. May he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
A special thank you to all the doctors, nurses, PSWs and other health care workers, in particular the staff on 7th floor north of Health Sciences North, for the dignified and compassionate care they gave him.
The family will receive relatives and friends at the COOPERATIVE FUNERAL HOME, 222 Lasalle Blvd, Sudbury, Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 3 to 7 p.m. A funeral mass will be celebrated Friday, December 8, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St-John the Evangelist Church, Garson.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Samaritan Centre, Sudbury.
samaritancentre.org/donate