August 12, 1935 - September 8, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Gloria Joy Barden on September 8, 2023. Gloria, known to most as Joy, was born Gloria Joy Bingham on August 12, 1935, to parents Gloria and Gordon Bingham.
Her parents lived in Cloverdale, where her mother Gloria was a long-time Boy Scout leader, and her father, Gordon, was a volunteer firefighter. Together, they ran the Clova Theatre, a staple in downtown Cloverdale.
Joy grew up in the Cloverdale area, where she attended school, later moving into the Whalley area after marriage. Joy competed in Highland dancing, and she would later pass down that passion to one of her daughters.
She met Kenneth Barden at a Cloverdale dance, and they married on December 1, 1950. They had 4 children together: Karen, Patti, Terri and Michael. Joy and Ken were married for 51 years prior to Ken's passing in 2002. While raising her family, Joy was a long-time employee of Marks and Spencer's, working as a retail associate for 20+ years prior to the store closing.
Gloria and Kenneth became an integral part of the community and opened up their home to many, which created a welcoming environment for all. Joy was an incredible hostess, always making sure to have her fridge full of everyone's favourite drinks and snacks.
Joy became a Mother and Grandmother figure to many along the way, cheering on everyone who walked through the door.
She dedicated her time and support to her family, attending her children's and grandchildren's sporting/school events whenever possible. She loved to have a hotdog at the ice rink or ballpark, rating them along the way. Gloria was an avid sports fan who took her sports viewing and football pools very seriously.
It didn't take much to make her happy, just the time spent with family, especially if accompanied by a plate of fish and chips and a strawberry milkshake.
Joy leaves behind her 4 children, 5 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, kindness and love, touching so many people along the way. She was an incredible mother and grandmother, wholly dedicated to her family. She was loved and cherished deeply by her family and friends and will be incredibly missed.
Upon Joy's request, there will be no service.