It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joan Ann Howell, with family at her side on Sunday, October 29, 2023.
She is survived by her loving husband Roger, of 59 years, and their only daughter Christina Howell-McLellan, (James), She will always be the proud Nana of John & Kathryn McLellan. Born on July 19th 1936 in Newcastle England she emigrated to Canada in 1960 and stayed for a few years in Toronto, before returning home to England where she met Roger and started their family together. In 1967 she had the itch to make Canada their full time home and they found themselves emigrating to Galt Ontario.
Joan worked as a medical secretary for some of the area’s top Doctors and later in her career she found herself at Monsignor Doyle Jr High School, where some students still remember her from, today. More than anything though Joan will forever fondly be known as “The Joan Howell” from Galt Little Theatre (now CCP) who volunteered her time for over 40 years. She also acted and directed in Guelph, Elora, and even in some of the professional theaters in the local areas. Joan brought many honors and awards to GLT for her direction and acting skills and is also the recipient of the Bernice Adams Award for Performing Arts and the Governor Generals 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal.
Joan’s favorites to direct were always the musicals and the love, pride and skill she had, could be seen in shows such as Oliver & My Fair Lady which she directed on the GLT stage in the 80's & 90’s. She also served on the Management Board and helped to establish the current home of Cambridge Community players - the CAT Cambridge Arts Theatre on Water St. Those that knew Joan also knew that she was also an animal lover and when she wasn’t on stage, she was down the barn dotting on the horses, goats or her beloved German Shepherds.
At Joan's request Cremation has taken place and a visitation will be held at Corbett Funeral Home, 95 Dundas St. N, Cambridge on Monday, November 6th from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.. The Funeral Service will take place in the Funeral Home's chapel on Tuesday, November 7th at 11 a.m. A Celebration of life will take place at Cambridge Arts Theatre at a time and date yet to be determined.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the medical and PSW staff at Bayshore HealthCare in Guelph, Dr. Shafir. and Hospice Wellington, who provided expert medical care, compassion, and comfort throughout Joan's final journey. The dedication and kindness from all of these individuals will forever be remembered.
