It is with tremendous sadness and regret we announce that on Thursday January 13, 2022, Joan Marian Smith ascended to the spirit world, surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 4th, 1957, Halifax NS, she was the only daughter of Gerald and Margaret Smith (Burke).
She is survived by her husband, Ronnie MacEachern, her five children, Jillian Hayter (Roy), Meghan (Wilker), Jonathan, Danielle, Caitlin Curtis (Alex), her three stepdaughters, Orla (Taylor), Molly, and Leah, her five grandchildren, Austin, Avery, Adrian, Charlotte, and Margaret, her brothers Ron (Lil), Bill (Lucy), Father Earl, and Ken (Mary), nieces Jennifer, Emily (Marc), Rebecca, Anna and nephews Scott (Nicola), Andrew, Brennan and Louie.
Joan’s greatest joy came from being a mother and grandmother. Her nurturing extended past her own children, stepdaughters and grandchildren, to her children's close friends and exchange students she hosted over the years. She had a “knock and walk” door policy and welcomed anyone who needed love into her home. She was a woman of deep generosity and kindness, who celebrated gratitude in her everyday life.
Joan was a healer who devoted her time to causes that honored Mother Earth, indigenous rights, and social justice. She was an active member of the Nova Scotia Voice of Women for Peace, and the Grassroots Grandmothers and the All Nations Drum. She embraced her indigenous ancestry and was actively involved with the Mi’kmaw community, both upholding their traditions and revindicating their treaty rights, especially the need to preserve the land for future generations.
Joan was a lover of the outdoors. She treasured going for swims at Bell Lake and dips in the ocean. Her favorite place was at the beach. She was a 50-year active member of Girl Guides of Canada and always looked forward to leading summer camping trips. She even attended a global reunion in Chile one year.
She was a passionate and talented seamstress and generously lent her skills to creating dolls, doll clothes, custom outfits, prom and wedding dresses, and so much more for her children, neighbors, and friends. She took most pride in her custom quilts, her favorite art, which she created as gifts to celebrate others. She lived a creative and musical life, singing and playing music with Ronnie and friends.
She will be deeply missed. Swim on Little Turtle Woman. Msit Nokomaq
The Family asks that instead of flowers, donations be made in memory of Joan Marian Smith to the Mi’kMaki Water Walk 2022 [email protected]. More information can be found on the facebook group Mi’kMaki Water Walk 2022.
Although the family would love for all those who loved her to attend, due to restrictions the funeral service will be limited. Please tune in to the live stream of the service Monday, January 24th at 11:00 am Atlantic. Funeral Mass for Joan Marian Smith (Monday, January 24, 2022 at 11:00 am Atlantic Time) - YouTube
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