Obituary of Joan Shirley Smith

The passing of Joan Shirley Smith of Saint John, NB, occurred on Monday, July 8, 2024 at Shannex - Cohen Hall. Born on August 4, 1952 in Upper Blackville, NB, she was the daughter of Freda Jean Arbeau and the late Miller John Arbeau. She lived most of her life in Fredericton and worked many years for the Provincial government - Motor Vehicle Department (now Service New Brunswick). She moved to Saint John a year ago to be closer to her sister. Joan cherished people and family and greeted them with a hug even when meeting for the first time. She loved to bake and always had delicious treats and nuts and bolts when you went for a visit. Joan was spirited but also gentle and had a wonderful welcoming smile. She adored animals and in her spare time enjoyed reading and was a very talented seamstress. Joan was a member of Cross Point Church and had an unwavering faith in God whom she depended on each day of life.

Besides her mother, Joan is survived by sisters, Pat Saunders (Quinton) of Saint John, NB and Marie Prescott (Doug) of Riverview, NB, and brother, Lee Arbeau (Sheila) of Nanaimo, BC. She was predeceased by her brothers, Kevin and Danny. Joan had a very special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews and their families and treasured spending time with them. Joan’s family wish to express their gratitude for all those showing love and support during this time of loss and they are grateful for the great care shown by the Shannex staff. Wait for us by the gate sweet Joan! 

A Celebration of Life will take place at Crosspoint Wesleyan Church, 4 Coronation Court, Fredericton, NB on Monday, August 19, 2024, at 1:00 pm with Rev. John Symonds officiating. The service will be available via livestream courtesy of the Crosspoint Church, viewable on their Facebook Page. Interment will take place in Olivet Cemetery, Fredericton, NB. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com