Joanne Catherine Ellen Brennan

Joanne passed away peacefully in her 76th year at Yee Hong Peter K Kwok Hospice surrounded by family on Thursday, October 9, 2025.

Joanne was the much loved daughter of Jim and Philomena Brennan (predeceased) and loving sister and best friend to Susan. Cherished and loved by many cousins and friends.

Joanne fought hard for over 20 years with serious illnesses. She was strong willed and determined to live. The last couple of years were very hard for her but she never gave up and continued with her daily activities right up to the end.

Joanne grew up in Brechin, where she attended Foley Separate School and high school at ODCVI in Orillia. She moved to Toronto in 1968 where she pursued a 30 year plus teaching career with TCDSB.

Joanne found much joy in teaching and was a much loved and respected teacher by her students, parents and colleagues alike.

Throughout her teaching career she coached track and field, and as a teacher participated in volleyball where her team achieved the distinction of City Champs, in 1978.

After retirement in 2003, Joanne became active in golfing and curling in addition to her weekly bridge games. She added many more lasting friendships, with bridge weekends, golf trips and curling bonspiels. She was active right up to the end.

Joanne enjoyed her travel with trips to the Caribbean, Cuba, Hong Kong, Australia, South America, Europe, Great Britain, golf trips to Myrtle Beach, as well as travelling throughout Canada for national curling events or just to spend time with close friends.

Joanne was an avid baker. Those fortunate to be on the “nice” list would be the recipient of her baking at Christmas or when visiting your home throughout the year.

Joanne loved gardening. Her gardens were her happy place. She would spend hours planning, planting and maintaining flourishing flower beds. Joanne would attend garden seminars and include many of the tips learned in her garden. She was rewarded over the years with several community Beautiful Garden Certificates including 2025.

Visitation will take place at Paul O’Connor Funeral Home, 1939 Lawrence Avenue East, Scarborough, Ontario on Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 2 to 4PM and 6 to 8PM.

Mass will be celebrated at St. Andrew's Catholic Church, Brechin, Ontario on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at 10AM.

In lieu of flowers donations to Restoration Fund, St. Andrew's Catholic Church, Brechin or

SHN – Oncology would be appreciated.