It is with profound love and gratitude that we share the news of the peaceful passing of Joanne Marie Hurley, who left us on December 26, 2024, at Pine Grove Nursing Home. Surrounded by her cherished family, friends, and her devoted husband Basil Hurley, Joanne's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, generosity, laughter, and adventure.

Born on January 3, 1943, in Brunswick, Maine, to Raymond and Simone (Lavoie) Doyon, Joanne lived a life that reflected her vibrant spirit and unyielding curiosity. Throughout her remarkable 17-year journey living with dementia, she remained a beacon of light to those who knew her.

Family and Legacy

Joanne’s family was her world; she is survived by her loving husband Basil and their five children: Katherine (Kent Brandmeyer) Hurley, Karen Hurley, Cheryl (Michael) Lavigne, Patrick (Josee Lefebvre) Hurley, and John (Nicole) Hurley. Her joy will resonate through her grandchildren: Keara (Dom), Ariana, Keillan, Anika Lavigne; Alex, Sarah, Isabelle Hurley; Adam and Ava Neiberger; Jack Hurley; and Summer Grant and Maya Allen. Joanne was predeceased by her beloved granddaughter Brianna Simone Lavigne, whose memory she cherished.

A Life of Education and Community

A testament to kindness and bravery, Joanne was a pioneer educator. After honing her leadership skills at Marie Joseph Academy in Maine, she graduated from Teachers College in 1961, beginning her impactful teaching career in Ville St-Laurent, Quebec, where she met her soulmate Basil. In 1968, they embarked on a new adventure to Chibougamau, Northern Quebec. There, Joanne established the town's first Kindergarten program while raising five children, a true testament to her incredible multitasking abilities.

The Hurley family later relocated to Sackville, New Brunswick, where Joanne founded a private, French-language Kindergarten program that inspired countless young learners. Her classrooms were known for their laughter and engagement, embodying her belief in the power of play. In her quest for knowledge, she obtained her BA from St. Thomas University and resumed teaching Kindergarten after her family moved to Fredericton, NB, in 1988.

Community Involvement and Hobbies

Beyond her role as an educator, Joanne was deeply committed to her community. She volunteered with the Catholic Women's League, served at the Fredericton Soup Kitchen, and participated in Pastoral Care at DECH, among many other charitable endeavors. Known for her warm hospitality, her dinner table was always open to guests, and her infectious laughter brought joy to every gathering.

In retirement, Joanne and Basil embraced travel, visiting their children and grandchildren, making memories across Europe, and passing the winter in Florida in their fifth-wheel camper. A passionate gardener, Joanne also loved cycling and enjoying sunny days with family and friends on their patio.

Celebration of Life

We invite you to celebrate Joanne's extraordinary life on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Holy Family Parish, 1500 Hanwell Road, Fredericton, at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow at the Delta Hotel in the Bobak Room, where we will raise a toast to the incredible journey of a truly remarkable woman.

Joanne's adventurous spirit, nurturing heart, and boundless love will forever remain alive in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. In her honor, memorial donations can be made to the Pine Grove Nursing Home Foundation or any charity of your choice. Join us in sharing memories and celebrating a life well-lived.