Joan, the woman who has been my mother’s tablemate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for many years at the Care Center where my mother lives passed away today.
Joan was bigger than life, always had a smile on her face, and something positive to say to everyone she met, even though most of the time she was in pain. She suffered from Polio as a child which carried over into her adult life requiring her to need leg braces and eventually a wheelchair as she raised her children. She was married to an Air Line Pilot, and often spoke of the wonderful relationship they had, and how much she loved and enjoyed raising their children together.
I came to know Joan well as I would visit with her and my mother through bingo and lunch. Joan was always there playing bingo, and she would carry on the best conversations through lunch when my mother couldn’t find her words…. She was also my friend, and sometimes the person who would help put things into perspective for me as I try to manage my mother’s needs.
My mother called her friend, even though they would have disagreements from time to time… but don’t we all? That, to me is what life is all about…, Not that we all have to agree all the time…., but when we have disagreements, given some time, and space, we come back together again and make it right…. That is what I remember most about Joan. That even though she had disagreements with other residents… She would allow a reasonable amount of time for emotions to get back in check…, then she would always go and try to make things right…
Joan was an inspiration to me on how to live each and everyday, and especially, how to conduct yourself at end of life…
R.I.P. Joan, you are missed!
Stay Tuned
beyond cinderella 
Dec 04, 2014 @ 23:09:39
My condolence to your Mom and you, Virginia ! To hear you talk about her from time to time she must have been a good person and I will say a prayer for her! I am sure your Mom will be missing Joan as I know you will also . May she be at peace now🙏
Dec 04, 2014 @ 23:20:08
Thank you Aunt Ellen. Yes, I am sure my mother will miss Joan, as will I. She was a very special person. Love and hugs to all. Virginia
Dec 04, 2014 @ 23:51:17
We have all come to know Joan…and so to hear this news is both sad, yet happy. You know how I feel about aging and death…so I know she is in a better place now….but of course sadness too. I know how you appreciated her so… Sending a big hug…xoxoxo
Dec 05, 2014 @ 00:16:46
I so agree Frissy that Joan is in a much better place and where she wanted to go. She was a special person and I feel blessed to have known her for so long. Love and hugs. Can’t wait to see you again soon. Enjoy every minute of your trip!! 🙂 Bro and Va
Dec 05, 2014 @ 03:03:12
Sorry to hear about Joan and know she is in a better place. Thank you for sharing your memories and visits of not only Joan but all the residents that you and mom have come to meet. Your writing brings me such joy that I can’t wait to read more about them. Please let mom know that I am sorry that she lost a good friend and to you too. She will be missed.
Dec 05, 2014 @ 13:19:52
Thanks Lucie. I will pass on your thoughts to mom. Hope you and your family are enjoying this beautiful Christmas season! XoXo
Dec 10, 2014 @ 02:39:33
So sorry to hear of Joan’s passing but know she is in a better place. Sorry for your and your mom’s loss. Thank you for allowing us to know her.
XoXoXo
Dec 10, 2014 @ 12:42:17
Thanks Kathy. Joan was a very interesting woman with lots of great stories to share. She is missed very much at the Care Center and in the lives of those that loved her.