Obituary of Joan Anne Williams

Died peacefully, surrounded by her sons in the early morning hours on Monday, September 9, 2024, at St. Mary’s General Hospital, Kitchener in her 92^nd year.  Loving mother of Thomas (Donna) of Halifax, and Christopher (Denise) of St. Agatha. Treasured Grandmother of Stacey Straus (Tom), David Williams (Sarah), Victoria Williams (Tyrus Clubb), Jeffrey, Kayleigh and Serena Williams. Great Grandmother of Lincoln, Weston, Cohen, Nolan, Violet, and Norah. Survived by her brother, Bill Hannon (Rose), sisters, Carol Cuddie, Patricia Parker (David), and Gail Curtis (Gerry), and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her loving husband James Williams (2013), daughter Catherine (1973), son James (2024), her parents, William and Geraldine (nee Winterhalt) Hannon, brothers-in-law Ron Cuddie, Bert (Claire) Williams, sisters-in-law, Yvonne (Thor) Anderson, and Dolores McCormick.

Born in 1932, Joan was the eldest child of 5 children and grew up in Kitchener, Ontario. Joan wore many hats during her lifetime, starting with baby-sitting for neighbourhood children during WW2, being involved with the Girl Guides of Canada until her marriage, while working at MacDonald Electric. Joan wanted to pursue nursing but was unable to due to a childhood illness. Most of her working life she supported her husband Jim’s art business while also being the Post Master in St. Agatha, raising her children and directing the St. Agatha church choir for many years. Joan retired from the post office and she and her husband moved to Morningside Village in New Hamburg and resided there for over 35 years. Newly retired, Joan then worked for Independent Living for twenty years, which fulfilled her need to care for others. Joan was a caregiver all her life to her family, friends, and neighbours. Earlier this year, Joan relocated to Beechwood Manor in Waterloo.

In her later years, Joan thrived on watching her grandchildren and great grandchildren in their sports activities – hockey, soccer, and dance. She was their avid cheerleader! Joan was a competitive dart player (even though her eyesight was failing) and enjoyed playing on the teams at Morningside Village, even having her dart team named after her – Joan’s Jetts. Her infectious smile will be missed. Joan never complained as her mobility and eyesight was failing. She only wanted to know what her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were up to. She was very proud of each and every one of us. Her family was very important to her and she never left a visit or a telephone call without ending with “I love you”.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the St. Mary’s General Hospital Emergency Room medical team and the doctors and nursing staff on the 5^th floor for their compassionate care that they gave to her in her final days. Special thanks also to Robert Reiner for the love and support given to Joan and her sons during this time.

The Funeral Mass for Joan will be celebrated at St. Agatha R.C. Church, 1839 Notre Dame Dr., St. Agatha on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 11 a.m., with Father Mariusz Durbajlo officiating. All are welcome to attend the reception in the parish hall immediately following the mass. A private family interment at St. Agatha RC Cemetery will follow. Cremation has taken place

Condolences for the family and memorial contributions to the Carmel of St. Joseph, St. Mary’s General Hospital, or a charity of your choice, would be appreciated by the family and can be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com.