Obituary of Joan Simpson

Simpson: Elizabeth "Joan"

On May 22, 2023, E. Joan Simpson passed away peacefully in her sleep, at age 92.  She was a long-time resident of Gananoque and was well loved in her small town.  Joan was the mother of 6 children, grandmother of 7 and great grandmother of 1.

Loving mother of Heather Simpson (Clarke Van Horne), Chuck Simpson (Kyla), Sharon (John Wilkins), Richard Simpson, Wendy Deschamps (Glenn), and Patricia Mooibroek (Harold). Much loved grandmother of Cheryl Bigalow, Bradley Simpson, Mackenzie Weir (Myranda Murray), Sean Wilkins, Anje Cranshaw (Evan), Ben Mooibroek and Jared Weir.  Adored great grandmother of Harley Rose Weir.  She will miss the upcoming birth of her great grandson Cranshaw in October.

Remembered fondly by sister-in-law Edith Welch, brother Glenn Sheppard and sister-in-law Lillian Sheppard.

She was predeceased by her husband Gerald (2011) and by her beloved daughter Sharon (2012). Also predeceased by her parents Ward and Lorena (Cathcart) Sheppard, sister and brother-in-law Elaine and William Stinson, brother Wayne Sheppard, brother and sister-in-law, Albert and Ferne MacDonald and brother-in-law Eugene Welch.

A stay-at-home mom when her children were young, Joan was able to return to her teaching profession in the late 60s. She found her career with the then named ARC Industries in the mid-70s and she remained supporting individuals living with developmental disabilities until her retirement.

Despite her large family, Joan always made time for extended family and others.  She especially loved her time at the cottage at Long Lake in Parham, Ontario.  Many quiet moments and family gatherings have been enjoyed at this location since 1967.  After retiring 30 years ago, she spent many hours volunteering for Grace United Church, Kingston Fair Board (board member and Home Craft Judge), 1000 Island History Museum, Heart and Stroke canvasing and working provincial and federal elections to name a few.  Her hobbies included sewing and knitting with many articles entered in local county fairs.  Family members benefited from her skilled craftmanship at birthdays and Christmas.  

The family would like to thank the residents of Pier One who made her transition from North St (her home of 60 years) easy and enjoyable, the staff and management of Fox Run Retirement Home for their devoted care as she declined in memory and mobility and the staff of Carveth for the care in what was to be a short stay.

Visitation is in care of Tompkins Funeral Home, Gananoque, with visitation June 1, 2023, from 5pm – 9pm. A private family inurnment will be held prior to a service to commemorate her life on June 2, 2023, at 11am in the chapel at Tompkins Funeral home. Reception to follow at Grace United Church in the fellowship hall.

As an expression of sympathy, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Lanark, Leeds and Grenville or Grace United Church in memory of Joan.