Mrs. Josie May Willock

In Loving Memory of Josephine May Willock

Josephine May Willock, age 93, of Saanich, BC, passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home on the evening of March 17, 2026.

Born on September 19,1932 in Duncan, BC, Josie grew up in Victoria. She attended Craigflower and Lampson Street Elementary Schools and graduated from Esquimalt High School. After completing her studies at the Provincial Normal School, she began her career as a teacher at Brentwood Elementary.

Josie married Archie on April 12, 1952, and together they were blessed with four healthy, rambunctious children: Dan, Martin, Bernie, and Shelley. In those early days, Josie embraced life as a stay-at-home mom living seaside in Cordova Bay, finding joy in raising her children. Once they were grown, she returned to work at the Greater Victoria School
Board. She loved being back working in school and did so for 20 years. Following retirement, Josie volunteered with the Royal Jubilee Hospital Auxiliary in the Gift Shop and enjoyed golf, walking, and reading.

As the cherished matriarch of her family, Josie was a source of steadiness, warmth, and grace. She was a true teacher, imparting life lessons not only through her words but by example—living with faith, courage, kindness, and quiet determination.

Throughout her life, Josie had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen and valued. She was a wonderful encourager and an attentive listener, offering calm guidance, thoughtful questions, and reassurance that lingered long after each conversation.

Whether by phone call, handwritten note, a shared cup of tea, or her steady presence during difficult times, she gave generously of herself. She celebrated others' milestones, helped shoulder their burdens and reminded everyone of what mattered most.

She will be remembered for her self-sacrificing love, infectious laughter, practical faith, passion for learning, and her love of being present with family. Josie strengthened those around her by the way she lived.

Josie will be deeply missed by her sister Lynne, daughter in law Barbara, children Martin and wife Sonya, Bernie and wife Marlene, Shelley and husband John; her grandchildren Geoff and wife Crystal, Elizabeth and husband Doug, Carla and husband Alan, Erinne and husband Tony, Tamara and husband Brad, Ben and wife Julie ann, Jennifer and husband Aaron and Max; as well as her great-grandchildren Ethan and Issac; Caedmon, Elijah, and Tristen; Elias and Julian, Xavier and Catalina, Jude and Luke, Maya, Hunter and Cruz, and Luna, stepbrother Ron and wife Ann, sisters in law Catherine and Bette-Lynne. And of course, many other cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.

Josie was predeceased by her husband Archie, son Dan, brothers David and Bruce, stepsister Barbara, and granddaughter Christina Marie.


The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many VIHA caregivers who visited Josie every morning for the past two plus years, showing kindness, compassion, and support.

Though Josie will be missed deeply, her family is grateful for 93 years filled with love, wisdom, and countless lessons in living well. Her legacy will continue through the stories shared, the values held, and the love she fostered in everyone she touched.

At Josie's request, a private "keep it simple" family gathering is planned as a Celebration of Life.