Born at Salmon River, Cape Breton, she was the daughter of Duncan and Mary Ann (Thomas) MacDonald. She was a graduate of St. Rita’s School of Nursing. Mom took pride as a nurse and served her profession well. The majority of her career she worked at the MacGillivray Guest Home until her retirement.
On July 16, 1960, she married Rannie MacLean, raising their four children together at Marion Bridge until his passing in 1979 when Mom took up the challenge of acting as both parents.
She is survived by son Joseph MacLean, Marion Bridge, daughters Donna Sutherland (Wayne), Upper Tantallon, Cheryl Hounsell (Rob), Ottawa and Mary Lynn Hodgson (Keith) Marion Bridge. Mom adored her three grandchildren Hannah Sutherland, Ottawa, Grant Sutherland, Halifax and Robin Hounsell, Ottawa. She called them her brunette, her blond and her redhead – “her Trifecta”. She is survived by sisters Ann Marie Gillis, Bernadette Gauthier (Lucien), Helen Nelson (Chuck), Margie Mullins, Elaine Fischer (Dave), Mary Clare Langer (Peter), brothers John T. MacDonald and Hugh MacDonald (Charlene), sisters-in-law Crissy White, Donna MacDonald and Debbie Weiser. She is also survived by her many cherished nieces and nephews and special cousins Jane Yates, Mary Burke and dear friends Larkyn Gillis and Betty McNeil.
Joan was predeceased by sister Stella, brothers Colin, Joe, Cyril and Gordie, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Cecil and Mary MacLean, Mary and Ed Grimm, Fraser White, John Alex Gillis and Diane MacDonald.
Mom’s strong faith carried her through life. She was a member of Sacred Heart Church, Marion Bridge.
Special thanks to the palliative Care Staff, Heather Skinner and Dr. George Burns. As well, thanks to Dr. Hebb and his nursing team. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten. Forever indebted to Karen MacDonald whom mom called “the salt of the earth,” who was there to support when we needed it most.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 23 from 2-4 and 7-9pm at TW Curry Parkview Chapel, Sydney. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11am on Friday at St. Margaret’s Church in Grand Mira with Fr. Paul McGillvray officiating. Interment to follow in the Parish Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com. If desired, donations in Joan’s memory may be made to either Palliative Care/Hospice Society of CB, Loaves and Fishes or the St. Margaret’s Cemetery Fund.
We want to imagine Mom listening to Donnie Campbell’s Celtic Serenade and enjoying a square set.
“The loveliest masterpiece of the heart of God is the Heart of a mother.” St. Theresa
