Joan Canada

It is with heartfelt love and fond memories that we announce that our beloved Joan Canada of Reading, Ohio passed away on December 12, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on November 20, 1935, in Burnside, Kentucky to Joseph and Edna Fitzgerald (nee Coomer). Joan touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Joan cherished her family, which included those who preceded her in death, her husband of 68 years, William Canada, her beloved brother James Fitzgerald, and her son Douglas Canada. She is survived by her daughter Barbara (Terry) Oswald, and her son Michael Canada. She adored her grandchildren—Stephanie (Jason), Charles (Melissa), Raeann (Cody), Michael, Rebecca (Jacob), Joshua, Jason (Lyndsey), and Kayla (Bill)—as well as her great-grandchildren: JJ, Zachary, Kynsli, Eva, Karley, Ava, Emalyn, Bristol, Healy, Florence and her nephew, Jim (Ellen) Fitzgerald.

Joan was a devoted homemaker who found joy in her family and the simple pleasures of life. She was a passionate fan of game shows, loved to play games on her phone, and always savored family time. Her tight-knit group of friends at her church brought her immense joy, and together, they created a community that thrived on faith, fun, and support.

Known for her generous spirit, Joan often volunteered at Matthew 25 with her church family. She enjoyed listening to gospel music, with the Gaither Brothers being one of her favorite groups. Joan enjoyed watching her favorite television shows with family, which included soap operas as well as home remodeling shows. She always enjoyed vacations with her family, including a memorable cruise to Alaska.

To honor Joan’s life, we are inviting family and friends to the Celebration of Life that will take place on Monday, December 23, 2024, at the Arlington Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 2155 Compton Road, 45231 (following the blue line upon entering the memorial park). Visitation will be held from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM with service beginning at 1:30 PM. Burial to immediately follow in the Garden of Meditation.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Joan’s life to Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 8645 Kenwood Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242. As we come together to celebrate the life of Joan Canada, let’s remember the laughter, joy, and warmth she brought to our lives. Her spirit will forever live on in our hearts.