It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Joan A. MacDonald on July 13, 2011, at the Halifax Infirmary QEII. Joan was a compassionate, generous, fun-loving woman who touched the lives of everyone she met. She would always leave you with a laugh. Her most fulfilling passion was raising and loving her family.
Born in Inverness Hospital on February 10, 1955, Joan was the daughter of the late Allan Francis and Mary Ann (Beaton) MacDonald. Joan is survived by her two sons, Stephen Smith, living in Halifax, and Ian Smith, living at home. Her sons were her two most precious gifts and the light of her life. She is also survived by their caring father, Greg Smith.
She leaves behind to remember her with great love her four sisters and five brothers----Alanna (John) MacInnis, Port Hawkesbury; Betty Crosby, Sydney; Anne MacDonell, Glencoe Station; Margaret MacDonald, Halifax; Alex (Marjorie) MacDonald, Port Hood; Angus (Brenda) MacDonald, South West Mabou; Bernie (Janice) MacDonald, Port Hawkesbury; Stanley (Catherine) MacDonald, Halifax; Kevin (Margie) MacDonald, New Glasgow. Also mourning the loss of a wonderful Aunt, are all of her nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Joan was predeceased by her friend and brother-in-law, Wayne MacDonell.
Joan was employed with the Government of Canada as a Human Resources Consultant, working a number of years with various federal departments, most recently the Department of National Defence. Joan worked faithfully to the best of her remarkable ability, and was rewarded by the respect and friendship of her colleagues.
Joan enjoyed gardening, making a home cooked meal, telling stories of her past, and making people feel happy. Her laugh was unique and her ability to entertain people was legendary. All of Joan’s lifetime friends, who met every September at the cottage, are a testament to her friendship, love, and laughter.
Cremation has taken place. Her last act of love was to be a full organ donor through the Queen Elizabeth II Critical Care Organ Donation Program.
Visitation for Joan will be held from 2 pm until 9 pm on Friday, July 15th, 2011 and on Saturday, July 16, from 11am to 1pm at the Port Hood Funeral Home, Port Hood, Nova Scotia. The funeral service will be held at St Peter’s Church, Port Hood, at 2 pm, with Father Vincent VanZutphen officiating.
Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to a charity of choice.
“ Grieve not, nor speak of me with tears,
but laugh and talk of me as if I were beside you there."
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