GREGSON, Olive

GREGSON

OLIVE JOYCE ELLISON GREGSON, passed away on May 7, 2020 at the age of 91 years. Joyce was born in Cardston, AB on December 31, 1928 just minutes before the new year to John Franklin Ellison and Frankie Henrietta Hinman. Joyce met Leo Dean Gregson during their high school years when her brief case often turned up missing because a certain basketball player had taken it. After Joyce had served a mission to the Canada Eastern Mission and Dean to Australia Sydney, they returned home and were sealed in the Cardston Alberta Temple on April 22, 1953. They later served missions together in Seoul Korea and Nairobi Kenya. They joyfully served together in the Cardston Alberta Temple for many, many years. Joyce knew hard work growing up on a ranch and later working by Dean’s side on their own ranch as they started their family. She enjoyed, sewing, painting, crafting, baking, gardening, reading, learning, planning family gatherings, and magnifying any church calling she accepted. Her life was one of service to all. She was a woman of beauty, happiness, grace, kindness, and unconditional love.

Most of all, she loved her family and some of her last words were “family is everything.” She cherished her children and grandchildren and led us all by her example and was the perfect model of parenting, grandparenting, and inner strength. One of her greatest legacies will be “We do hard things.”

Joyce was predeceased by her husband Dean and son Jeff. What a joyful reunion that was! She is survived by her children Deborah (Paul) Funk, of Yuba City, CA, Kathryn (Ray) Nickel of Magrath, Joanne (Jim) Ferguson of Cardston, and Michael (Sharon) Ryan of Raymond. Joyce has 24 grandchildren and 75 great grandchildren.

Mom, you have given so much and asked for so little in return. Thank you for always being there for us, for teaching us, listening to us, helping and forgiving us, loving us, and always paving the way for us, even now. We will continue to honor you by working hard to reach the standard you set. Oh how we love and miss you! Families are Forever.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a family graveside service will be held. Interment will be in the Cardston AB Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent at www.legacyfuneralhome.ca