Obituary of Joan McPhail

McPhail

Joan Marie McPhail, 79, longtime resident of West Elgin, passed away on March 21, 2023 surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on June 7, 1943 in St. Thomas Ontario to Lloyd and Nellie Butler. After graduating high school she attended teacher's college and started teaching at the old #8 school just north of Rodney. She married her loving husband, Don McPhail in July of 1963. She continued supply teaching after the birth of her children. 

Joan fiercely loved her family, and was well known for her gift of hospitality and for bringing loved ones together. She went above and beyond when needed by others and generously opened her home to care for them. During her 59 years on the home farm she supported her husband in the business, raised her children and a grandchild and worked and volunteered in the community. Her hobbies included refinishing furniture and painting a sufficient number of ceramics to keep ahead of her rambunctious children.     

Joan is survived by her loving husband, Donald McPhail, her son, Cameron and his wife Lucie. Predeceased by her daughter Marie and her son-in-law Jason. Lovingly missed by her grandchildren Caitlin Phillips,  Neil (Aleria) and Melissa (Jayden). Remembered by her sister-in-laws Norma and Jeanette (Herb). Joan leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. Predeceased by her parents, her siblings Ken, Rena, Don and James, her brother-in-law Duncan and his wife Liz. All of these she loved and touched deeply.

The family would like to thank the staff of Royal Oak Senior Living for the excellent care they provided for Joan in the last 7 months of her life and that they continue to provide to her husband Don. Joan greatly enjoyed the music, activities, crafts and fellowship until she was limited by her illness  

As per her wishes, cremation has occurred. Arrangements have been entrusted to Dennings of Rodney, 212 Furnival Road, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0, Friends and family are welcome to gather together for a visitation in Joan's honor on Saturday March 25, 2023 from 1 - 2 pm and a celebration of life at 2 p.m and interment at McLean Cemetery. Friends are welcome to join the family for light refreshments at Dennings following interment.

Those who wish may make donations in Joan's honor to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.