Joan McMahon

With great sorrow, we announce the peaceful passing of our sweet mother, Joan H. McMahon in her 87th year. Beautiful Joan was born in 1939 to parents Alfred and Ann Sheffield along with older siblings Douglas and Marianne. She married her high school sweetheart Charles Evans, raising four children in Ottawa and Calgary. Decades later, Joan moved to Vancouver Island to marry Donald McMahon, enjoying life in Victoria, Port Alberni, Qualicum Beach, and Nanaimo. She was an amazing mother and grandmother who taught us endless life lessons and guided us throughout our lives. Joan led a life of integrity, a life filled with kindness, wit, warmth, and unwavering love for her family. She loved clipping out special quotes or stories to share with family and friends and was always there to listen. Very active and friendly, she’d go out of her way to make others feel welcome, seen and heard. Joan was also a captivating public speaker and creative writer with exquisite cursive writing. She excelled as homemaker, librarian, Weight Watchers’ coach, and volunteer for innumerable groups including Victoria Hospice, Craigdarroch Castle, Nanaimo Tourism, and NTG. After years refining driftwood and choir singing, at age 75 she began acting onstage then professionally in Film & TV. Our beloved gal will always be lovingly remembered for her elegance and enthusiasm epitomized by her signature phrase “Who has more fun than people?!”

Predeceased by parents Alf and Ann, siblings Doug and Marianne, husbands Chuck and Don.

Survived by children Catherine, Sandi (Peter), Doug (Wilma), Lini (Ross) and grandchildren Chris, Alex, Travis, Brianne, Rebecca, Barbara and Kyle

A private Celebration of Life will be held in Victoria on January 8, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer Society of BC