Joan Marjorie Owen

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Joan Marjorie Brown Owen on July 10, 2026, in Toronto, Ontario at the age of 85, following a long heartbreaking struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Thankfully, Joan was supported throughout by her daughters, her devoted private caregivers—Jaya, Michelle, Sabrina, and Veronica—and the compassionate care at Kensington Gardens.

Joan is survived by her daughters and grandchildren: Gillian, Joanna, Kirsten, Maël, and Billie Rose.

Independent and unafraid to choose a different path, our mother Joan modeled courage, resilience, and humor for everyone close to her. Her approach to life was a gift that we carry within us and continue to draw from.

Despite many obstacles in her life, Joan always pursued her many passions. She rescued an old log house in Glengarry County, and threw herself into weaving, spinning, painting, quilting, gardening, reading, cooking, socializing, and bridge. A gifted storyteller, she loved listening to music, playing the piano, and joyfully dancing whenever the opportunity arose.

Never anchored by convention, Joan aspired to be her best self and, through sheer hard work and resourcefulness, she built a life on her own terms ruled by kindness, forgiveness, and understanding of the human condition. A champion of nature from the teeniest ant to the largest human, she was a unique and wonderful person whose memory we will always cherish. She will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer Society of Canada. Celebrations of life will be held in Glengarry and Toronto and this obituary will be updated to share the details once arranged.