The Eulogy for Aunt Joan

Dear Bro, As you know Dad and I recently ventured over to England to say goodbye to Aunt Joan. Dad went the weekend before I did and managed to see her in the hospital in Canterbury before she passed. The service was held a week later at Margate Crematorium, and as part of the service our cousin James read the following words written by Dad.

Joan was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who led a good Christian life. She was kind and considerate to everyone with whom she came into contact.

She began life in Chingford, Essex where she attended Pitman College. After school she worked as a shorthand typist for Gaumont British. On the outbreak of the second world war she volunteered as an ambulance driver, which she continued until the end of hostilities.

In 1946 she married Bill, who had spent much of the war as a POW in Japanese hands.
They were married for 61 years and had three children: Virginia, Denise, & Timothy. Unfortunately, Denise died as an infant.

Joan enjoyed active sports and was very successful at 10 pin bowling and outdoor bowls. She also enjoyed boating. She and Bill had a bout on th Stour River.

Serious leg problems caused her to give up active sports and she spent more time traveling. She visited many places in Europe and the United States enjoying them all, but her favorite vacation was in Norfolk.

She also was an excellent back seat driver, causing Bill to say on many occasions "Shut Up, Joan!", not that this ever had any effect. Joan's presence had a uplifting effect on on all her relations. Her 2 nephews Greg and Richard and niece Michelle adored her as did all her family.

She will be sorely missed by her immediate family Bill, Virginia and Tim, her grandchildren James and Mekaela, and her brother Terry and his family.

God Bless You Joan.....