Marilyn Joan Massiah

Joan was born in the small town of Knowlton, in the Eastern townships of Quebec. She attended Bishop's University; such a happy time there. In 1953, she went to the United Kingdom on a scholarship, and was there the day Elizabeth was crowned Queen. She saw the procession go by and watched the service on a small TV in a pub. That trip gave Joan the love of traveling, and in her life she went to many countries.

The greatest joy of her life was her two sons, Chris and Richard, whom she loved unconditionally like the amazing Mom she was. Joan loved to watch all small children and babies, even after her own boys were grown and had moved on with their lives. Happiness to Joan was smiling at a small child and having them smile back.

She moved to Toronto in the mid 60's, living in the middle of the city and raising Chris and Richard.

Joan was a teacher of English and Theater Arts for decades. She herself was very theatrical, always laughing and chatting with friends and family. She shared history and hockey with Chris, and a love of nature and crossword puzzles with Richard. She read continually and shared favourite books with family and friends. Always busy, she would be out to the theater and concerts, taking classes at the AGO, wandering the ROM, even spending days at the zoo.

Joan loved birding and shared that with her boys, as well as enjoying time spent in Algonquin Park with Richard and Kim.

With Chris, Joan shared a love for his cat Bishop, and during their frequent phone conversations would ask for an update on his latest feline adventures.

Joan and Susan shared many walks around the Christie Gardens neighbourhood, especially at Halloween to see the decorations.

Special times were had visiting with Carolyn and Brian in their home, seeing their dogs and helping to name the puppies. They would often spend time at Dewar's in the fall and have Thanksgiving.

For such a tiny woman, Joan was larger than life.

We will miss her, but are so lucky to have had her in our lives for so long.

Be at peace, Dear Mom.