- Haskett Funeral Homes | Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth & Zurich Ontario - https://www.haskettfh.com -

KENNEDY: Joan (Ward) of Ilderton

Posted By Haskett Funeral Home On June 16, 2023 @ 3:51 PM In Lucan,Obituary | 63 Comments

KENNEDY: Joan (Ward) of Ilderton

It is with great sadness that we announce that Joan Kennedy, the cornerstone of the George Kennedy family, passed away on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at the age of 85. She will forever be remembered as a loving wife and mother, a cherished sister and sister-in-law, a doting grandmother, a proud great-grandmother, and a good friend.

Born to Frank and Jane Ward on February 19, 1938, Joan brought joy and warmth into the world. Joan was the loving mother of the late Catherine Long (husband Brian Long) and Stephen Kennedy (wife Ann-Marie Kennedy). She was a source of inspiration and support for her family, and her love created a strong foundation that bound them together.

Joan was the sister of Mary Lou McMullen, with whom she shared a special bond throughout their lives. She was accepted with love into the big Kennedy clan, inheriting 6 sisters and 2 brothers who treated her as their own.

As a grandmother, Joan showered her grandchildren with unconditional love and affection. Bryan Johnson, Courtney Brown, Tianna Levesque, and Stephanie Kennedy all held a special place in her heart, and she took great joy in watching them grow and thrive. Her legacy of love extended to her grandchildren’s spouses (Beth, Christian, and Thomas), and her precious great-grandchildren, Saoirse and Rowan Johnson, Tyler and Tatianna Brown, and Levi Levesque. As a mother-in-law, she was the best anyone could hope for.

Joan’s life was marked by significant events and meaningful contributions. She dedicated many years as a secretary at Oxbow Public School, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of students and colleagues alike. In her early years, Joan’s passion for music led her to become a member of the Earl Terry Women’s Choir, and her beautiful voice echoed through wedding ceremonies, adding an extra touch of joy to those special occasions.

Sports held a special place in Joan’s heart, from cheering on minor hockey teams to following professional league baseball. Her enthusiasm and love for the game inspired those around her, and she reveled in the competition and camaraderie that sports brought to her life.

Joan’s presence in our lives will be profoundly missed. However, her love, warmth, and indomitable spirit will forever resonate within the hearts of her family and friends. As we remember her, let us celebrate her life, her unwavering love, and the lasting impact she had. Rest in peace, dear Joan Kennedy, knowing that your legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire and guide us.

Special mention to Sonya Grigg, who supported Joan through her toughest times.

Cremation has taken place. A public visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, LUCAN on Thursday, June 22nd from 2 – 4 PM. Registration for visitation is appreciated. Please click “register now” below to register. A private family interment at Medway Cemetery will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, for those who wish, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society. Your contributions will honour her memory and support efforts to improve the lives of those affected by this challenging condition.

 


Condolences for the family of “KENNEDY: Joan (Ward) of Ilderton”

Condolence from Glenn & Sharleen Phillips on June 16th, 2023 4:52 PM

George and Family
Thinking of you at this difficult time.Joan was a super lady.When she was at Oxbow school our children adored her she knew the students and looked out for them whether they were in trouble or not. Cherish the memories

Condolence from Kathy Noyes on June 16th, 2023 6:40 PM

To the Kennedy Family,
Our sincerest condolences. May the memories you cherish bring comfort at this time.
Terry and Kathy Noyes

Condolence from Chelsey (Manning) Passmore on June 16th, 2023 7:20 PM

Dear Kennedy’s,

Through the years, she’s gone from Mrs. Kennedy at Oxbow, to Joan when meeting in the community. No matter where or when we met, each greeting was always met with calling me by name and a flash of her heartwarming smile. My hope is that your memories of Mom/Grandma and Great-Grandma bring you a sense of comfort in the coming days and weeks. Her wonderful legacy lives on in each of you.

Sincerely
Chelsey (Manning) Passmore

Condolence from Theresa Jaworski on June 16th, 2023 9:18 PM

Tia – my thoughts are with you and the family –

Condolence from Barbara (Filson) Johnson on June 17th, 2023 12:56 AM

To The Kennedy Family
So sorry to of your loss.
I have wonderful memories of Joan at Oxbow.
She was a very caring loving lady.

Condolence from Lindsey Sinclair (DeBlock) on June 17th, 2023 5:38 AM

So sorry to hear of Joan passing. She was a wonderful lady. I have many fond memories of her. My sincere condolences to all the family.

Condolence from Mary Hammel on June 17th, 2023 6:45 AM

To Stephan, Anne Marie and family. Our sincere condolences. May all your memories hold a special place in your hearts. I have met her a few times and she was a special lady. Paul and Mary Hammel

Condolence from Alma Robb on June 17th, 2023 7:32 AM

To the Kennedy Family

Joan was a bright star to the children at Oxbow, and will never be forgotten. May she rest in peace!

Condolence from Helga Howald on June 17th, 2023 8:02 AM

George and family,
My baseball years playing with Joan hold fond memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. She was a great lady.

Condolence from Bryan and Liz Graham on June 17th, 2023 8:28 AM

George, Stephen and Family
We extend our condolences to you at this difficult time. Joan will always have a special place in our hearts, created by our close working and social relationships. We will continue to cherish these many encounters. May you find comfort in your many memories.
Bryan and Liz Graham

Condolence from Ann (Shoebottom) Brabender on June 17th, 2023 8:34 AM

George and family – my deepest sympathy. Joan had a great voice and wonderful smile. Joan was always involved in the community. Cherish all the memories for years to come.

Condolence from Kim Miles on June 17th, 2023 9:23 AM

George, Stephen, Ann-Marie, Tia and Stephanie we are all so very sorry for your loss. Joan was a wonderful person with a beautiful soul and I’m sure her absence will truly missed amongst your family. Try and take comfort knowing she is at peace and she will always be in your hearts.

Kim, Jessi & Justine and Bill Miles

Condolence from Paul Elston on June 17th, 2023 9:26 AM

To the Kennedy Family

So sorry to hear about Joan’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.

Paul Elston and Family

Condolence from Kim Waugh (Grigg) on June 17th, 2023 9:41 AM

To the Kennedy family,

I am so sorry to hear about Joan. She was such a lovely person, a great friend to my mom and just a nice person to be around. I often remember our times together as a family, having dinner at your house or ours. Those memories are very special and still make me laugh to this day. The Grigg kids often talk about some of the antics at the dinner table!

Joan will be missed by many. I am thinking of you at this difficult time and I hope your memories bring you comfort at this sad time.

Condolence from Katherine McNaughton on June 17th, 2023 10:59 AM

George Kennedy & Family

Sincere sympathy to George and his family.
Joan was a special person in our lives, not only a great neighbor, but enjoyed our fellowship working together at Bethel Church.
She also took a great interest and care of our family when they attended Oxbow School.
R.I.P. dear friend.

Katherine McNaughton & Family

Condolence from John & Mary Walls on June 17th, 2023 2:00 PM

To George and family;
Joan always greeted you with a smile. Lots of great memories for you to cherish. Thinking of you at this difficult time.

Condolence from Diane O’Shea on June 17th, 2023 3:22 PM

Sending our most sincere sympathy to the entire Kennedy family. Joan was such a lovely lady, we remember her fondly.
Diane and Mike O’Shea

Condolence from Dawna and Harry Van Boxmeer on June 17th, 2023 3:49 PM

Steve, Ann-Marie and Family
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of Joan. Thinking of you and wishing you fond memories of your times together.

Condolence from Orene McNaughton on June 17th, 2023 4:32 PM

Dear George and the entire Kennedy Family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. She was a great lady and a dear friend. We all will miss her.
Orene McNaughton and family

Condolence from Joan Leitch on June 17th, 2023 4:40 PM

George and Family,
Joan was a wonderful person, and will truly be missed. Her smiling face for kids at Oxbow, many memories with baseball. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Joan, Kevin Leitch
Steve & Paula (Leitch) Morrison

Condolence from Joan Robson on June 17th, 2023 5:11 PM

To George and the Kennedy family
I think that Joan had a very wonderful life…working at Oxbow,,going to ball games and sharing her beautiful voice….she sang at my wedding almost 56 years ago!
May she rest in peace.
Joan Robaon and Ralph Needham

Condolence from Jeff & Teresa Young on June 17th, 2023 9:09 PM

George and family So sorry to hear of your loss our thoughts and prayers go out to you all

Condolence from Joan Taylor on June 17th, 2023 9:32 PM

My condolences on Joan’s passing. Her love of life was evident in her smile. Let the memories of the good times be your support in the coming weeks.

Condolence from Deb & Rob Andrews on June 17th, 2023 10:23 PM

George, Steve, Ann-Marie and extended family

Joan was a friendly and caring lady. Her smile would like up the room. She was especially proud of her family and loved to share all your accomplishments in life.
Joan touched the lives of so many, young and old and she will forever be remembered for all she did.
Hold those memories close in your mind and heart, they will get you through the difficult days.
Rest in peace dear Joan.

Condolence from Pat Goertz on June 17th, 2023 10:37 PM

Our sincere condolences on the passing of Joan. She will be missed by all who knew her. Rest in peace Joan…..
Pat & Ben Goertz

Condolence from Elston, Young and Walker Families on June 18th, 2023 12:31 AM

Dear George and the Kennedy Family,
We are thinking of you as you both miss and celebrate your beautiful Joan. We always enjoyed our visits with Joan, often after church on many a Sunday morning, when she would pop over to our pew and ask how things were going. With great humility, she embodied friendliness, genuine interest in others, a sense of humour and a volunteer spirit. Her smiles came naturally, lighting up her corner of the world and those blessed to be in it. Wishing you peaceful thoughts amidst the many happy memories.

Condolence from Ruth & Cliff Dickie on June 18th, 2023 7:26 AM

George , Steve and all the family,.
Joan was a wonderful lady, always had a smile. I worked with her at Oxbow through the Home and school. She was always willing to help me. Cherish all the memories.

Condolence from Jonathan Van Delft on June 18th, 2023 12:32 PM

My sincere condolences to the whole family. I consider myself very fortunate to have known Joan for the time that I did, and even then it was clear to see how bright a light she has been throughout the entirety of her life. She will always leave an impact on me and be one of my favourite people I have ever worked with.

May she rest in peace.

Condolence from Lloyd and Julia McNaughton on June 18th, 2023 2:57 PM

To the Kennedy family, Lloyd and I send our deepest sympathy to you. Joan was loved and respected by all. My fond memories remain in your hearts forever.

Condolence from Verda Keays on June 18th, 2023 6:23 PM

My sincere condolences to George and family. Joan’s smile and infectious laugh were pure joy. I have very fond memories from school board functions and hockey games. May your fond memories and knowing she is at peace give you strength in the times ahead.
Verda Keays

Condolence from Tara McKenzie on June 18th, 2023 9:21 PM

George , Steve & Anne Marie and family,
Very sorry to hear of your loss
Joan was one of the kindest ,sweetest ladies I know
Thinking of you all …she will be missed by many
Hugs XX
Tara McKenzie

Condolence from Gary, Bonnie and Pamela Ideson on June 19th, 2023 6:34 AM

George, Steve and Kennedy families

Ilderton has lost another special lady – Joan has left the community with many wonderful memories, especially at Oxbow school. Cherish the many kind messages of sympathy and memories of Joan to help you through the difficult days ahead. Our sincere condolences for your loss.

Condolence from Dale & Linda Froats on June 19th, 2023 6:39 AM

George and the Kennedy family, Wishing you peace and comfort at this sad time as you share together your memories of Joan and your times together as a family who knew lots of laughter and joy.

Condolence from Judy Bond on June 19th, 2023 7:38 AM

George & family, please accept my deepest condolences on Joan passing. She always met me with a great smile and conversation. May she rest in peace.

Judy Bond

Condolence from Steve and Kim Bowman on June 19th, 2023 8:07 AM

Dear George and family,
Our deepest condolences on the loss your special lady Joan.
Joan was a wonderful person, and her smile would light up the room.
Joan was truly a Oxbow Star !

Condolence from Lynda Niles on June 19th, 2023 8:15 AM

George and family,
Deepest sympathy to you and your family. Hoping the wonderful memories of Joan will comfort you now and in the future.

Rick and Lynda Niles

Condolence from Diane Young on June 19th, 2023 11:17 AM

George, Stephen, Ann-Marie, Tia and Stephanie and families

I am sorry to hear about Joan’s passing. She was a very fine lady. I remember her as cheering on the girls hockey team and the odd time seeing her around town and area, she always had a smile. Our deepest sympathy. Cherish your memories.

Diane Young and Jessica Davis

Condolence from Don and Elvy Urbshott on June 19th, 2023 12:12 PM

Those we love don’t go away,
They walk beside us everyday,
Unseen, Unheard, but very near,
Still missed, still loved and very dear.

Condolence from John and Joan Morgan on June 19th, 2023 12:49 PM

George and Family,
Our thoughts are with you and your family in the loss of your dear Joan. We wish to extend our sincere sympathies to the entire family. Cherish and remember the great family times.
John and Joan Morgan

Condolence from Susan Cook on June 19th, 2023 1:19 PM

Dearest Kennedy family,
We were so saddened to hear of Joan’s passing. She was a wonderful lady who always had a smile on her face and lots of love in her heart. We will miss her dearly! Hold onto all those wonderful memories and she will live forever in your hearts.
Sam and Sue

Condolence from Heather Bice on June 19th, 2023 4:14 PM

George, Stephen, Ann-Marie, Tia, Stephanie, Bryan , Courtney and families
Joan was such a special lady and touched the hearts of many people. She was a great friend to Mom and Mom cherished her fun times they had together. Joan always had a smile for everyone she met, she was kind, caring and always ready to lend a hand. She was adorned by all the students at Oxbow that were lucky enough to know Mrs. Kennedy (me included) and she always went above and beyond for the students and parents alike. She will be truly missed in our community and will be remembered for her generous spirit. Hoping you can take all those great memories in your heart will give you strength and peace in the difficult days ahead. Thinking of all of you.
Sincerely
Heather Bice

Condolence from Chris & Lisa Robson on June 19th, 2023 4:45 PM

George, Stephen & Family.
Sorry to hear of your loss. We extend our sincere condolences. The Kennedy clan were always terrific neighbours!
RIP Joan

Condolence from Angela Jack on June 19th, 2023 11:32 PM

My condolences to the Kennedy family. I have MANY fond memories of Mrs. Kennedy while sitting in the office multiple times a week throughout my 9 years at Oxbow! It didn’t matter what I did to land myself there, I was always greeted with the most beautiful smile and the biggest hugs! She sure was one in a million!

Condolence from Shelly Edwards on June 20th, 2023 6:37 AM

George and family we send our deepest sympathies for the loss of a beautiful lady Joan. She was the face of Oxbow and such a wonderful person filled with love and so much knowledge. Our kids send their love!! Geoff, Shelly and family

Condolence from Marg Robb on June 20th, 2023 8:00 AM

Very good memories of Joan at Oxbow school. A very special woman.

Condolence from Sheila (Beatson) Hodgins on June 20th, 2023 9:51 AM

To the Kennedy Family. I am saddened to hear of Joan’s passing. Mrs Kennedy was the glue that held Oxbow Public School together for many of us students.
As the 1994 Oxbow Cookbook says:
The spirit of Oxbow Recipe includes:
1 and only 1, Mrs Kennedy (she knows everything!)

Condolence from Bill &Joan Dobbie on June 20th, 2023 9:59 AM

Sending our sympathy to George, Stephen & family
We have lost another special & dear person
RIP Joan heaven will open u with open arms

Bill &Joan Dobbie

Condolence from Vera Henderson on June 20th, 2023 10:42 AM

George and family
I am sorry to hear about Joan’s death…a loss to your entire family. My thoughts are with all of you and I know you will find comfort in the memories you will always carry with you of the special person she was.
Vera Henderson

Condolence from Bonnie and Marty Hodgins on June 20th, 2023 2:00 PM

Marty and I are saddened to hear. As many have said “Mrs Kennedy” was a great memory in our years at Oxbow. Our thoughts are with the entire family.

Condolence from Janice Beckett on June 20th, 2023 4:27 PM

To George and the family
It saddens me to hear of the passing of Joan. During my time at Oxbow, she made coming to work fun. Joan’s kindness and willingness to help were always appreciated. Laughing came easily to Joan, which was such a great quality, especially when working with students and families, she was the heart of Oxbow. She will be missed.

Condolence from Norma Clare on June 21st, 2023 9:35 AM

To George and Family – Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your beloved Joan. She was such a beautiful person in every way. For many years, we sang together in the Earle Terry Singers. She was a cherished member, and a dear friend. Do know my caring thoughts are with you . . .
Norma (Dunn) Clare

Condolence from Wayne and Heather Greig on June 21st, 2023 2:42 PM

George and Family, We are sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. She will be resting peacefully now.

Condolence from Pamela Bice on June 21st, 2023 3:01 PM

George, Stephen, Ann-Marie and family
I was so very sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. She was such a huge presence in my life , my children’s and my parents. I have so many fond memories of her, from the kind Mrs. Kennedy who was always so helpful at Oxbow to the friend of my Mom’s who had such an amazing smile and of course Aunt Joan to my kids. The one thing I am sure is that she and Mom are having a grand old visit laughing about all the amazing times they had together. We were all blessed to have shared in her life.
Big hugs to all of you
Pam Bice and family

Condolence from Liz and Roy Fulton on June 21st, 2023 3:44 PM

So sorry.

Condolence from Fran Urbshott on June 21st, 2023 6:28 PM

George, Steve and family,
Brian & I are sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Brian, Fran Urbshott and family.

Condolence from Jay & Christine Hayden on June 22nd, 2023 10:40 AM

Thinking of you during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you and our deepest condolences to you and your family.

Condolence from Bill Thomas on June 22nd, 2023 12:14 PM

So sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. Deepest condolences to the entire Kennedy Family.

Condolence from Jim and Joan (Hodgins) Emery on June 22nd, 2023 12:47 PM

Dear George and Family:

We are sending our sincere sympathy to each of you in the passing of your dear and precious Joan. She ‘wore’ her heart on her face and showed her love to anyone she met.
You must have so many happy memories of everything you did as part of the Kennedy clan and Joan’s family. Keep sharing and talking about all of those memories.

May God surround your family, and reveal Himself to you, as you live through these days.

Jim and Joan ( Hodgins) Emery

Condolence from Joanne Hatt on June 22nd, 2023 6:54 PM

Our deepest condolences.
Joanne and Al Hatt

Condolence from Patrick David Maidens on June 23rd, 2023 9:30 AM

Steve and family;
So sorry to hear about your mom’s passing. Sounds like she was a terrific person.

Condolence from Bob and Anne-Marie McNaughton on June 24th, 2023 11:41 AM

it was with sadness that we heard of Joan’s passing She was a great person with always a smile and a hello

Condolence from LaVerne Revington on June 25th, 2023 11:54 AM

George, Steven and Family,

I am saddened by the loss of Joan. She was a wonderful friend. We shared many memories and good times together starting at Oxbow Public School. There was always laughter in our get togethers and for that I am forever thankful. George and family, she was a special one! Be well in this difficult time.

Condolence from Laura Carne on July 22nd, 2023 6:00 AM

George Kennedy and family

We are sorry for your loss. Joan was a remarkable woman and will not be forgotten. May you cherish the memories you hold dear.

Laura and Stuart Carne and family

Article printed from Haskett Funeral Homes | Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth & Zurich Ontario: https://www.haskettfh.com

URL to article: https://www.haskettfh.com/kennedy-joan-ward-of-ilderton/

Copyright © 2010 Haskett Funeral Homes |All rights reserved.