Obituary of Joan Marie Walsh

It is with sadness that the family of Joan Marie Walsh (née Morrison), 75, of Watervale, PEI, announces her peaceful passing on October 14, 2025, while at home surrounded by loved ones.  

Joan was born in Glace Bay on her beloved Cape Breton Island on May 22, 1950, to Fraser and Margaret (née Currie) Morrison. She was one of five children: Catherine, Joan, Neila, Jeannie and the late Dr. Milton Morrison.

After growing up and completing grade school in Glace Bay, Joan followed the advice of her dedicated and hard-working parents and left home to further her education, a theme which would be a throughline of her life and of those she touched.

She enrolled at Saint Franscis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia – an institution she treasured - which would be a constant presence in her life for nearly 60 years. In 1972, she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing (BScN).

Following graduation, Joan worked across Nova Scotia as a nurse, clinical instructor and therapist before continuing her studies at Boston University where she completed a Master’s Degree of Science in Nursing (MS) in 1978.  

In 1973, she met Leo Walsh of PEI who, as chance would have it, also happened to attend a fateful social gathering in Halifax.

In 1979, Joan would marry the love of her life, Leo. The couple would go on to have six children: Margaret Anne (Robert Haggis), Leigh Ellen (Adam Lomas), Angelenia (deceased, 1984), James, Stephen (Ellen) and John (Juliana). At her insistence, all would go on to attend St.F.X.

In turn, the kids would bless Joan and Leo with nine grandchildren (to date): Clare, Gavin and Madelyn Haggis; Malcolm and Aloysius Lomas; Hannah, Hugh and Leo Walsh; and Maya Walsh. She was also blessed with treasured long friends – the MacKenzies, the Josts, and so many others.  

In PEI, she served professionally and passionately in the public health care system for 25 years, rising to senior positions in mental health, acute care and as Chief Nursing Officer for Community Hospitals and Continuing Care.

Before her retirement in 2017, Joan spent eleven years serving at the federal level as a Member of the Veteran’s Review and Appeal Board.

While motivated by many causes and objectives, her work in service to community was a hallmark of her life.  This was evidenced by her contributions in health care, in politics, and in her generous hospitality: all were welcomed at her home in Watervale.  

Importantly, Joan also had a lifelong passion for education and training, seeing them as central to the betterment of one’s person, family and community. While always ready to host and cater a holiday or celebration, there were no more important events than a graduation ceremony for a child, cousin, friend or neighbour.

Resting at Hillsboro Funeral Home, Stratford, PEI, visiting hours will be held on Friday October 17, 2025, from 4:00-7:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday October 18, 2025, at 10:30 am at St. Joachim’s Church, Vernon River, PEI. Interment, Celebration of Life and lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made online to the St. Joachim’s Cemetery Fund.