Obituary of Joan Violet Ashby (née Corrigan)

Joan Ashby passed away peacefully on the evening of Tuesday, July 29th at Orchard View in Almonte. She was predeceased by her husband Melvin Ashby; her parents, Sadie and Frank Corrigan; and her siblings John, Norman, Albert, Ernie, Bobby, Mary, and Helen. 

Joan shared a special bond with her mother, Sadie, and cared for her lovingly during her final years in Almonte. Born and raised in Billings Bridge, Ottawa, Joan attended Immaculata High School. Though much of her life was devoted to raising her family, Joan also worked in administrative roles both in the military and in businesses around Almonte.

She leaves behind her sons Shawn (Mary), Patrick (Dee), Dan (Kirsty) and daughter Ann (Denny); as well as her cherished grandchildren Ryan, Mitchell, Matthew (Nova), Kaitlin, Michael, Lauren, Paige, and Carter. Joan was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Zuri and Zavier.

If you asked us to describe Mom, we’d tell you she had an unforgettable giggle, a radiant smile, and a sparkle in her eye. She loved reading mysteries, and solving puzzles. Her laptop was always close by—ready for an online bridge tournament, often ending a phone call with, “Gotta go, the tournament’s starting!” For over 40 years Mom and her good friends Bev, Jennifer, Marilyn, Betty, Linda, Liz and Marion from Almonte would gather, often weekly, for bridge, wine and snacks.

One of her favourite things was playing 31 with her kids and grandkids as well as cribbage. Before each game started there was always the comment, “How much are we playing for.” Over the years it increased from quarters to toonies!

But what she loved most was time with family and friends. Whether it was escaping winter with Dan and Kirsty in California or enjoying countless meals and gatherings in Almonte, Joan’s life was filled with connection and joy.

A special thank-you to the incredible nursing staff at Orchard View in Almonte.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Cole Funeral Services, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa on Wednesday, August 6 at 12:00 to 2:00 pm. A private vigil will follow.