Elizabeth Cortis writes:

A mother figure and a role model. That was the Joan I knew. I remember when I first met her, I was struck by her contagious smile. Joan’s smile was infectious, to the point that when you saw her smile, you could not help but join her.

Being both teachers of English at the same school, we became fast friends. Indeed, friends she had aplenty and as more and more colleagues share their memories of her, it is evident that Joan was a mother to many and a trustworthy friend to all.

Joan was incredibly hard-working and admired for her energy and commitment to others. Widely read, talented and knowledgeable, she was an invaluable asset to the school.

She was not just a subject teacher but strove to instil in her students a love of learning and reading. Countless students know their success to Joan and students and parents alike are appreciative.

Joan was intuitive and never too busy to lend an ear. She sought to comfort others more than she sought to be comforted. She was there for others without question and had a wise and tender wisdom about her that often led people to open up to her, knowing she would listen without judgement and offer advice.

Joan’s faith in God was strong and she would often remind those around her to trust in God’s will. What was so wonderful about Joan was that she knew right from wrong and led by example. It was evident that she was devoted to her family and talked fondly about her husband, son and daughters during the day.

Juggling work, family life and her various hobbies, she still found time to be there for everybody. She was a giving and generous person. This was evident even in the little gestures, like when she used to cook her trademark lemon meringue pie for her colleagues. She was fond of giving presents she hand made herself and to her mind, books were bought to be shared as she was only too glad to lend her books.

Joan was an exceptional woman. In the good times and the bad, she never lost her capacity to smile and laugh, nor to inspire others with her positivity and gentle spirit.

The staff at St Benedict’s College, Boys Secondary School, Kirkop, would like to convey their deepest condolences to her family, relatives and friends. We assure them that she will persevere in our minds and hearts and that we will never forget what she has taught us.