It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Joanne Marie Hurley on December 26, 2024, at Pine Grove Nursing Home, surrounded by family and friends, including her beloved husband, Basil Hurley. Joanne’s journey through life, which she faced with courage and love while battling dementia for 17 years, leaves behind a rich legacy filled with laughter, generosity, and an insatiable curiosity for life.

Early Life and Education

Born on January 3, 1943, in Brunswick, Maine, to Raymond and Simone (Lavoie) Doyon, Joanne exemplified the spirit of adventure from an early age. Her life was marked by a steadfast commitment to her family and community, which she viewed as an extension of herself.

Family and Legacy

Joanne is survived by her devoted husband, Basil, and their five children: Katherine (Kent Brandmeyer) Hurley, Karen Hurley, Cheryl (Michael) Lavigne, Patrick (Josee Lefebvre) Hurley, and John (Nicole) Hurley. Her cherished niece, Myriam (Travis Allen) Doyon, and her grandchildren—Keara, Dom, Ariana, Keillan, Anika Lavigne, Alex, Sarah, Isabelle Hurley, Adam, Ava Neiberger, Jack Hurley, Summer Grant, and Maya Allen—will carry on her legacy with her joyful laughter echoing in their hearts. Joanne was predeceased by her granddaughter, Brianna Simone Lavigne.

Career in Education

Her educational journey began at Marie Joseph Academy in Biddeford, Maine. After graduating from Teachers College in 1961, Joanne embraced her passion for teaching, beginning her career in Ville St-Laurent, Quebec, where she met her soulmate, Basil. Their adventure as a couple took them to Chibougamau, Northern Quebec, in 1968, where Joanne established the region’s first Kindergarten program while deftly managing her growing family. In 1976, the family’s next chapter unfolded in Sackville, NB, where she founded a private French language Kindergarten program that positively impacted the lives of countless children.

Commitment to Lifelong Learning

Joanne’s dedication to nurturing young minds was matched only by her commitment to lifelong learning. She later completed her BA at St. Thomas University and continued teaching Kindergarten in Fredericton, NB, where she became a beloved figure in education.

Community Involvement and Personal Life

Joanne's community spirit was unwavering; she was involved in various initiatives, including the Catholic Women's League and the Fredericton Soup Kitchen. She believed in the importance of a welcoming home, where the dinner table was always filled with laughter and stories shared amongst family and friends. In her retirement years, Joanne and Basil traveled extensively to visit their children and grandchildren, explored Europe, and enjoyed winters in Florida, where they fostered deep connections within their snowbird community. During the summers, she cultivated her love of gardening, cycling, and creating cherished memories with loved ones.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Joanne's remarkable life will be held on Saturday, December 28th, 2024, at Holy Family Parish, Fredericton, at 11:00 a.m. A reception at the Delta Hotel in the Bobak Room will follow, where friends and family will gather to toast a life well-lived.

Legacy and Donations

Joanne's adventurous spirit, loving heart, and boundless enthusiasm will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known her. In honor of her life, memorial donations can be made to the Pine Grove Nursing Home Foundation or a charity of your choice, ensuring her legacy of kindness endures.

Let us come together to celebrate the extraordinary journey of Joanne Marie Hurley, who has left an indelible mark of love and light in our lives.