Obituary of Joan Carol Donovan

The family of Joan Carol Donovan regret to inform you of her passing on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at Hospice House Fredericton following a long battle with cancer. Born in Neil’s Harbour, NS on August 4, 1953, she was the daughter of the late George and Margaret (Jackson) Hardy. Joan received a senior education degree from Saint Francis Xavier University, class of 73. Joan was an elementary school teacher in Cape Breton prior to moving to Fredericton, where she concentrated her efforts on her family and, in particular, as a nanny for her grandchildren. 

Joan was a member of the Kette/Kinette clubs of Nashwaaksis and a volunteer at the Garden Creek school library. She was an avid gardener and crafter. She most enjoyed playing all types of games with her family and friends, sharing a glass of wine with her girlfriends, her annual Christmas Eve open house, trips to Ingonish and pool time with family.

Joan is survived by her husband of 51 years, Wilson; two children, Shaun (Susan) and Andrea; and her 3 grandchildren, Kirsten, Wil and Alex all of Fredericton. She has 4 sisters; Judy (Vaughn, deceased) Sams, Lynn (Chris) Gorey, Lori (Tim) Doyle, and Anita (Cory) Williams, all of Ingonish, NS.

There will be no visitation or memorial service at the request of the deceased. Interment will take place at a later date in Ingonish, NS.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice House Fredericton who took such wonderful and compassionate care of her and her family during her final days. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com