Bower, Joan Marie

Halifax, NS

March 05, 1940 - September 16, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joan Marie Bower (Reynolds), who took her final journey to be with her Lord on September 16, 2025, at the age of 85.

Joan's life was filled with love, laughter and a deep commitment to her family and friends. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Joan was born on March 5, 1940, to Alice and Joseph Reynolds, and raised on a farm in Ridgetown, Ontario. She and her little brother, Allen, were inseparable in their childhood, sharing many adventures as they explored the land and fished from ‘the crick’. Later, Joan embraced her role as a loving big sister when her little sister Nancy joined the family.

Joan was predeceased by her parents, Alice and Joseph Reynolds, and her beloved brother, Allen. She was also preceded in death by her grandson George and granddaughter Hannah, whose absence left a hole in her heart.

After graduating from high school, Joan moved to London, Ontario, briefly before heading to Nova Scotia, where she would build a home, a career, and a family that was the centre of her world. Joan was the beloved partner of Harold Walker for over 25 years. In her final months, Harold was her steadfast and tireless caregiver, a testament to the depth of their love.

Joan is survived by her partner, Harold Walker; her sister, Nancy (Tom); her children, Dan (Darlene), Patricia, Cynthia and her stepson, Jason. She was the proud grandmother of Emily (Scott), Stephanie (Aaron), Julia, Samuel, Annika and Tricia. Joan will be deeply missed by her many nieces, nephews and friends, all of whom were touched by her kindness, warmth and generosity.

In her professional life, Joan had a fulfilling and successful career at ManuLife Financial, where she served as an executive assistant in leadership. Known for her sharp mind, her eagerness to learn and her hard work, Joan earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

Joan loved sharing time with others through her many hobbies. She enjoyed fishing, playing bingo, bowling and, in her later years, being part of lively dart leagues. Joan was a loyal member of the Royal Canadian Legion, where she spent countless evenings dancing, laughing and creating lasting memories with her friends. It was there that she met Harold, her partner and greatest companion.

Joan's memory will live on through her loving smile, her molasses cookies, the treats she always had ready for her grandkids, her warm hugs and her generous spirit. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel special and valued and her absence will be felt deeply by all who knew her.

We are grateful that Joan is now at peace, reunited with her Lord and her loved ones. Though she will be missed beyond measure, we find comfort in knowing that her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire us all.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Veterans Memorial Hospital 3 East for their unwavering care and support for Joan over the last many weeks.

A celebration of Joan’s life will take place on Sunday, September 28 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at the Fairview Legion, 50 Hillcrest St, Halifax, B3N 2X5. There will be a short service starting at 1:00PM, with refreshments to follow.

Private interment at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Joan’s memory are invited to consider a donation to Canadian Cancer Society or The Royal Canadian Legion Fairview #142.

"In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety." – Psalm 4:8