It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Joan Esther O'Neal at the age of 72. Joan passed away at her home on Sunday, September 24, 2023 with her family by her side.
Born in Sackville, she was a daughter of Shirley (Butler) Melanson and the late Albert Melanson.
Joan devoted her life to helping others. From running a home daycare, to teaching kindergarten, working in Early Intervention and being a residence Don at Mount Allison University. Joan cared for her Thornton students like they were her own, creating a home away from home.
Always active, Joan brought her love of exercise to the community as a well liked aerobics instructor and later as a faithful sports fan for her children but especially her grandchildren.
If the person Joan was could be summed up in a word, it would be selfless. She always put others ahead of herself, was always ready to lend a helping hand and saw everyone for who they were. She was loyal, supportive and the brightest of lights that guided us all. Joan made everybody’s life brighter just by being in it.
In addition to her mother Shirley of Sackville, Joan will be dearly missed by her partner Eric Wood, Sackville; children Lesley (Frankie) Burns, Scott (Christine), and Shane, all of Sackville; 9 grandchildren, Travis (Lucrèce), Abbi, Emma, Aidan, Owen, Hannah, John, Drew and Peyton; great grandchildren Cameron and Sloane; sister Betty (Cecil) Dickie, Sackville.
Joan was predeceased by her husband Gordon, her twin brother John and her infant granddaughter Hannah Burns.
The family would like to thank nurses Tina and Mary and Extramural nurses Nancy and Claudine.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Jones Funeral Home, 70 Bridge St., Sackville, (506-364-1300), where visiting hours will take place on Monday, October 2, 2023, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Joan's funeral service will be held from the funeral home on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at 2 PM, William Drysdale, DLM officiating. A private family burial will take place in the Four Corners Cemetery, followed by a public reception at Scott O'Neal's home.
Those wishing to make a donation in Joan's memory may do so to the Ovarian Cancer Society or charity of your choice.
Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfuneralhome.ca or through the Jones Funeral Home Facebook page.